CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. - Students and staff at Taylor County Elementary read 419,835 minutes from Feb. 12-28, sending Mr. Brian Clifford, principal, on top of the school.

Gail Pippin, librarian, gave the students a challenge of reading 400,000 minutes. The goal was set in conjunction with Read Across America and the district’s literacy initiative.

Mr. Clifford promised the students in return for their reading, he would sit on the roof of the school for three hours if they met their goal.

Reading logs were sent home to all students and staff. Everyone was encouraged to read each night and time was kept in classrooms as well.

In support of the event, Mrs. Lisa Arnold’s second grade class worked together and created a chant to encourage participation. Her class performed their chant during Morning Meeting for the entire school.

 “We are going to read, read, read,

To put Mr. C., C., C.,

On the roof, roof, roof!”

On Thursday, March 17, Mr. Clifford stepped onto the roof with his books in-hand. With the help of Campbellsville Fire Department, he was lifted up by the bucket truck. Students and teachers gathered on the bus lot to see him hoisted into the air.

“We want to express our gratitude to them for helping us to create great excitement for the event,” expressed Pippin.

Classroom teachers brought students out and they listened to Mr. Clifford read.  He read to them from his chair at the side of the roof.

The kids were excited to see their goal accomplished and happy to see their reward. They were also impressed to see their reading time was over the initial goal.

One student said, “That’s just awesome!”