Pelton reads on the Boston Common

Taking some time out to enjoy the last days of summer and support an important literacy and arts access program, President Pelton gave a reading at the Boston Common today. His audience consisted of very enthusiastic three- to six-year-olds, who came from Boston-area neighborhoods as part of the Highland Street Foundation’s TADpole 10 program.

The no-cost, 10 week program takes place each Thursday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm throughout the summer at the TADpole playground on Boston Common, which Highland Street renovated in 2002.

Hundreds of children from nearby preschools, daycare centers and summer camps turn out to hear a new story each week, read aloud by a guest reader (readers have included Mayor Marty Walsh and WGBH Arts Editor Jared Bowen '98). Afterward, every child receives a complimentary copy of the book and can participate in interactive games and arts activities.

President Pelton with Blake Jordan, executive director of the Highland Street Foundation with TADpole 10 participants (left to right): Aiden, Victoria, Mohammond, and Austin

All eyes were locked on President Pelton during his animated reading of the book Bark, George by Jules Feiffer.