Below is an excerpt from a press release from the White House:
“Read Across America Day marks the birthday of Theodor Seuss
Geisel, better known to the world as Dr. Seuss. Through amusing
wordplay and engaging tales, his stories have helped generations
of young Americans enjoy reading and sharpen basic reading
skills, vital tools for their future success. With parents,
teachers, and communities working together, we can ensure
reading is a national priority and American pastime.
By recommitting to improving literacy and raising the
expectations we have for our students, for our schools,
and for ourselves, we will win the future for our children
and give every child a chance to succeed.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested
in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States,
do hereby proclaim March 2, 2011, as Read Across America Day.
I call upon children, families, educators, librarians, public
officials, and all the people of the United States to observe
this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.”