The Beaumont Association of Retired Teachers (BART) partnered with the district to present books to students at three campuses. The group surprised close to 300 students total at Martin, Fehl-Price and Charlton-Pollard Elementary Schools.
Fannie Brown, BART 2nd Vice-President and Chairperson for the Children’s Book Project, was responsible for gathering books to donate, as per a mandate from the state of Texas. “I knew I wanted to put books directly into the hands of students,” said Brown. “I went to Half Price Books in Houston. After explaining who I was and what BART and our project wanted to do, they were able to offer us a substantially reduced rate.”
Representatives from BART visited the campuses, displayed all the books and enjoyed watching each child choose one. “It was very important for us to see the children and let them pick their own book. By writing their name in the front, it gave them ownership,” Brown continued. “Each school was very welcoming. Students at Charlton-Pollard gave us thank you cards. One 2nd grade student was so excited, he jumped up and event translated my discussion in Spanish.” BART is not only for retired teachers, but for all retired Beaumont ISD employees.
