Students at Mary Ford Early Learning and Family Center received a special visit from local leaders this week as part of the nationwide celebration of Read Across America Week.

Chief Camacho, Assistant Chief Perry, and City of North Charleston Recreation Director Sedric Webber spent time reading to students, encouraging a love of books, and learning among the school’s youngest readers.

Held annually in early March, Read Across America Week promotes the importance of literacy and encourages communities across the United States to come together to support reading. Schools often welcome guest readers from local organizations, businesses, and government agencies to share stories and inspire children to develop strong reading habits.

For the North Charleston Police Department, community engagement events like these are an important way to build relationships with young residents and foster positive connections between officers and the community. By visiting schools and participating in educational programs, officers help reinforce messages about learning, respect, and opportunity.

Teachers and staff at Mary Ford welcomed the visit, noting that events like these help make reading exciting for students while demonstrating that community leaders value education.

As Read Across America Week continues, the message remains clear: reading opens doors. Through partnerships between schools, public safety officials, and community organizations, students are reminded that learning—and the stories found in books—can take them anywhere. 📚✨