One of the Rotary Club of Tehachapi's favorite projects is distributing personalized books to every single kindergarten student throughout TUSD. We partner with Kiwanis who services Tompkins Elementary while Rotary visits the classrooms at Golden Hills Elementary and Cummings Valley Elementary schools.

The books feature individual names of the student, teacher, school, pets. In some cases this book might be the only book that the child owns. The project encourages literacy and love of reading at an early age, because reading is the key to success in learning. The books were delivered mid-May.

The kids just loved the personalized books that were presented.

Planning started months ago when each kindergarten teacher was asked to get forms filled out on every student in their class so that the books could be personalized. When delivered, we're able to check for any discrepancy and immediately order any additional books for a new student in the class. This project has been the source of so much joy for the Rotarians who volunteer to go to the schools. The delight on each child's face when they are called up to get their book makes every minute worthwhile.

Thank you to all the Kindergarten teachers at TUSD for helping to make this program the success that it is and happy reading to all the recipients of this book.

Rotary meets every Thursday at noon at Big Papa's Steakhouse. For more information on Rotary call Tim at (661) 821-0086.