Masons across Texas are discovering the many rewards of reading to youngsters. As part of the Take Time To Read program, Texas Masons are teaming up with their local libraries and schools to read to children, collect books through book drives, and reap the rewards of glowing eyes, smiling faces and eager listeners.
Carrollton Masonic Lodge currently places their Take Time to Read program at the 3rd grade class at Central Elementary in Carrollton. Members of Carrollton Lodge, and their wives, sign up for times to read to the 3rd grade class generally every Friday during the school year (excepting holiday weeks or the summer). The committee for Carrollton Lodge's Take Time to Read effort led by Past Master Tom Van Hoose, has been successfully visiting Central Elementary for many years now; with many of the members and their wives signing up year after year. If you are interested in helping with our Lodge's Take Time to Read Program, contact Tom at one of our monthly Stated Meetings.
Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children is co-sponsoring the program with the Grand Lodge of Texas. Lodges can participate in Take Time To Read at any time and continue it as long as they want. Participation especially is encouraged during Texas Public School Week held annually each March, During that week, Masons are invited to share the important historical role of Masons in Texas public schools while demonstrating support for the education of young people today.
A handbook, distributed by the hospital, outlines ways that Masonic Lodges can take part, from distributing brochures and instigating book drives, to reading aloud at home, at libraries and at schools. The hospital also has bookmarks and certificates of recognition available to celebrate Take Time To Read. A start-up kit includes three posters, 50 brochures, 50 certificates, 50 bookmarks and a video.
To start a Take Time To Read program in your community, call Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children at 800-421-1121 and ask for Elizabeth Cantrill or Susan Dyess.
