Southmoreland Primary Center held its annual Reading Night last month, an event high school and primary center students look forward to every year.

“Not only is it a great opportunity for the younger kids to get out of the house and do something fun,” said  sophomore Allison Stout, “it’s a way for the high school students to gain some volunteer hours and have a good time helping the younger students.”

During reading night, each classroom of the primary center holds a different activity related to literature for the kindergarten and first grade students to participate in. Each room is hosted by a group of students from the high school who have created the activity themselves.

“My favorite part is seeing the kids enjoying an activity I came up with.” said sophomore Megan King. “Whether it’s just coloring some pictures I’d drawn or reading to them, seeing the kids enjoying it is really fun.”

Aside from the reading related activities, in the cafeteria/ gymnasium of the school, there is face painting and a cookie table donated by the students’ parents.

“The kids came in groups to the cafeteria and it was cool to see their faces light up when they saw a table with every kind of cookie.” said junior Abbie Kubasky who worked the cookie table. “Most of them got their faces painted first so it was funny seeing each one come up to the table with face paint on.”

The highlight of the night was the kids getting to meet the local firemen. The volunteer departments from both Scottdale and East Huntington were in attendance and brought their trucks and gear for the amusement of the students.

“I think it’s really cool that the firefighters came.” said Kubasky. “I know a lost of the younger kids look up to and idolize them, so I can imagine how cool it is to meet them and see the trucks at school.”

Also at the event were a few “princesses.” Sophomores Brianna Kuhns, Trinity Thomas, and Jess Hunt dressed up as Disney princesses for the kids who were more than happy to spend some time with them.

“I feel bad for all the people who spent money on tickets for Disney on Ice the Friday of reading night,” said Mrs. Jenna Hixson. “All the real princesses were with us at the primary center.”

So many students and parents were in attendance that shuttle buses were taking them to and from their cars at parked a the football field all night long. Students and staff hope for an even better turnout next year. In the meantime,  Reading Buddies will be held almost every Friday to encourage every primary center student to read as much as possible.