Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra recently recognized the first recipients of the On Your Way Award for the 2004/05 school year. The award is designed to recognize students who are working especially hard to improve their literacy skills.

Three students at Tahoe Valley Elementary School received the awards. They are Teresa Tenocelotl, second grade; Kailey Killeen, fourth grade; and Tyler Corbin, fifth grade. Each student was presented a plaque in the presence of their peers, awarded a $25 gift certificate to a local bookstore, and a book was donated to the school on behalf of each recipient.

Teresa Tenocelotl was recognized by her teacher, Ms. Ross. When describing why she enjoys reading, Teresa said, “When I read I’m learning new words. You can read all kinds of books – some are funny, some are sad. I really like to read books about the holidays. Looking at the picture also tells you about the story.”

Ross describes Teresa as a “conscientious and responsible student. She is excited about her new reading skills that enable her to read books she selects. Since September she has become a confident reader who likes to read every night.”

Teresa’s favorite book is “My First Day of School,” from the Clifford book series.

Kailey Killeen was recognized by her teacher, Ms. Gronwold, for having a wonderful attitude toward reading and for the progress she has made.

Gronwold said, “Kailey comes to school with a smile on her face each day and is ready to learn. It is a pleasure to work with her.”

When asked what she likes about reading, Kailey said, “You can learn a lot of new stuff from reading books.” Her favorite book is “Judy Moody” because “it’s funny.”

Fifth-grade student Tyler Corbin was recognized by his teacher, Ms. Gronwold. According to his teacher, Tyler “deserves this award because of his hard work in class. Tyler puts effort into everything he does in school. His class work is done with extreme care and attention. He has made a ton of progress in reading and comprehension. He is a great kid.”

Tyler likes reading because “it is exciting and enjoyable when there’s nothing else to do. I like mysteries because there is always something to figure out. They make you keep thinking.” His favorite book is “Your Mother Was a Neanderthal.”

Congratulations to Teresa, Kailey and Tyler for their excellent achievement in reading.

Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra looks forward to honoring students at Sierra Elementary school next month.