BCSD News Release: KEES Reading Rodeo Brings School Community Together Through Books and Fun
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KEES Reading Rodeo Brings School Community Together Through Books and Fun
WILLISTON, S.C., September 17, 2026 — Kelly Edwards Elementary School (KEES) celebrated a love of reading during its Reading Rodeo on Tuesday afternoon, September 15, 2026.
Students, staff members, families and community partners participated in reading activities held throughout the school. The event offered something for readers of all ages, creating an engaging atmosphere where books, learning and family fun took center stage.
In addition to the reading activities, students received free books to take home and enjoy. The giveaways helped extend the celebration beyond the school day by encouraging students to continue reading and building their personal libraries at home.
The Reading Rodeo also gave families and community members an opportunity to connect with the school while reinforcing the important role reading plays in student success. By bringing the community together around literacy, KEES demonstrated that reading can be both educational and exciting.
“Family Reading Night is about creating the kind of joy around reading that stays with you; the feeling you had as a child sitting on your teacher’s carpet, completely drawn into a story. We want every child to experience that magic and every parent to remember it. Literacy opens doors, builds confidence, and brings families and communities together, and we are incredibly grateful to the many partners who helped make this night possible, including Old Barnwell, First Citizens Bank, Ned Branch Church, Russell’s Pizza, Girl Scouts, Elko Baptist, Save the Children, Williston Public Library, and Beth Dunnaway. This year, our commitment is to move every child forward, every moment, and experiences like Reading Rodeo remind our children that an entire community is cheering them on,” stated Principal Krystle Speller.
The event reflected Barnwell County School District’s 2026–2027 theme, “Every Story Matters,” by celebrating readers, strengthening school-community partnerships and helping students discover new stories to enjoy.
Barnwell County School District appreciates the KEES faculty and staff, families and community members whose participation helped make the Reading Rodeo a memorable afternoon for students.
Every Student Matters. Every Moment Counts.
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For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Communications Office
Phone: (803) 541-1298
Email: BCSDNews@bcsd.net