Georgia's First Lady visits Berkeley Lake Elementary School

In celebration of Read Across America week, Berkeley Lake Elementary School students and teachers had a special treat -- Sandra Deal, wife of Governor Nathan Deal, stopped by to read to students on Thursday.

A former school teacher, Mrs. Deal said it was a real treat to be able to return to the classroom. "I was delighted to come," she said. "As a former teacher, I enjoy coming into the schools."

Sitting in front of two kindergarden classes, a first and second grade class, the First Lady kept the young students captivated with a short story she read aloud titled "My Brother Charlie," a story written about twins, who must deal with autism. The story is co-written by sisters Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete.

It's all part of a national recognizition of Dr. Seuss's birthday, who was born on March 2, 106 years ago.  The movement began in 1997 when a small task force of the National Education Association came up with a way of promoting reading in the schools.

Each year guest readers visit local elementary schools to read Dr. Seuss books to the students. Motivating children to read is an important factor in student achievement. Research has shown that children who spend more time reading do better in school.

Mrs. Deal will visit several Cobb County schools today as part of the Read Across America promotion.

For more information, go to www.nea.org/readacross and see what you can do to get involved.