Maureen McCasland, Lisa Ieronimo and Kathy McKeeman

"Cultural Awareness Regarding Ethnicity (CARE)" is a project designed by McCasland and her team members Ieronimo and McKeeman that uses a unique approach to encourage first-grade students to enjoy reading, involve family members in reading, and improve reading proficiency. Approximately 55 students at Barnard Elementary School will have the opportunity to begin developing a home library. Innovative techniques and strategies including having the teachers dress the part of characters and portray roles will be used to promote reading among the students to enhance their reading skills and foster cultural awareness. During the upcoming school term, students will be introduced to five books that involve the awareness of various cultures from countries including China, Ireland, Mexico, the United States and certain African countries. They will learn about the history and traditions of these cultures such as Cinco de Mayo, Flag Day, St. Patrick's Day, Black History, and the Chinese New Year. McCasland and her team members hope that the program will promote a greater awareness of the importance and pleasure of reading, involve parents/family in shared reading, and ultimately help students develop skills for the Connecticut Mastery Test.