Harborfields Central School District

On October 22 and 23, Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School (TJL) and its Parent Teacher Association turned reading time into community time during the school’s annual Read-In. Families gathered outside with blankets, books, and big smiles. In addition to a favorite book, attendees  brought non-perishable food items to support the Harborfields Alliance for Community Outreach (HACO) food pantry before taking turns reading with students.

For more than 30 years, TJL has proudly supported the Read-In. While the structure of the event has changed over time, most notably after Covid to allow more parents the opportunity to attend, the meaning behind it has remained the same – sharing the joy of reading with families strengthens the home-school connection and reinforces the importance of literacy for all. 

The beautiful fall weather set the perfect backdrop for all 26 of Lahey’s classes to spread out across the lawn, the playground, the blacktop, even the popular GaGa pit, turning every corner of the campus into a cozy reading nook. Students enjoyed relaxing and reading alongside the many parents and family volunteers who signed up to participate. 

“It is always fun to see groups of students along with community members enjoying a book together,” said Dr. Andrea Horowitz, Assistant Principal of Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School. “We know that the adults take the time to choose the perfect book to read and it definitely is appreciated by the students.” 

Families were generous with both their time and their donations. Dozens of non-perishable food items, including granola bars, canned vegetables and soups, cereals, and more, were collected. Thanks to the incredible turnout and outpouring of support, the HACO food pantry shelves will be restocked, and the community bonds will be even stronger. 

“Our friends and families who are food insecure need us right now. Our friends and families who may be experiencing homelessness need us right now. We serve hundreds of people at HACO and without community support and the school wide community support we would never make it each month,” said Maggie Boba, HACO President. “When we all do something, no matter how big or how small we make a difference.”

The district is proud to promote literacy, partner with local organizations, and teach the importance of supporting one another, even among its young learners. 

For more information about getting involved, visit HACO's website.