Michigan Zeta Inspires Young Readers During March Is Reading Month

Ferris State University’s Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter, Baldwin Elementary School, and Chartwells K12 is helping spark a lifelong love of reading among the district’s youngest Panthers.

For Colin Burt, event coordinator for the chapter, the program represents an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the community.

“As for what inspired the idea, it was brought up a few years ago by one of our brother’s mothers who works at Baldwin Elementary, and we immediately saw it as a great opportunity,” Burt said. “We wanted a way to make a direct and immediate impact on the community, and March is Reading month seemed like the perfect time to engage with the kids and encourage learning.”

As part of a growing March Is Reading Month tradition, 25 fraternity members visited the school on March 20 and spent the day reading to nearly 300 students in pre-K through fifth grade. The initiative has been organized in collaboration with Chartwells K12 since 2024 and continues to be a highlight of the school year.

Shelly McGhee, District’s Director of Dining Services

“Our students always look forward to our annual March is Reading Month tradition with the FSU fraternity members. It provides a unique opportunity for our Panthers to engage and interact with the FSU students as they begin to experience the many joys of reading.”

Each fraternity member selected a pre-approved book and rotated through classrooms, sharing stories that ranged from beloved Dr. Seuss classics to contemporary titles by Patty Lovell, Matthew McConaughey, Taraji P. Henson, and Joanna Gaines.

The visit included more than time in the classroom. Fraternity members also joined students during gym class and recess, and Chartwells K12 provided a themed snack and cookies to share during reading time.

For Burt, some of the most memorable moments came from the students themselves. “My personal favorite part of the event was just seeing the kids’ face light up when we came in,” he said. “Being able to do things outside of just promoting literacy was also great, when we got outside and were able to play with the kids and almost feel like we were young children again.”

The experience also reflects the chapter’s broader commitment to service.

“Overall, it felt amazing to give back,” Burt said. “As a chapter and organization, we strive to give back to the community and create a positive impact. Being able to take a day and spend it with these kids reminded us that we are a part of something much larger than just our campus.”

School leadership emphasized the importance of encouraging reading at an early age.

David Forrester, the district’s superintendent.

“At Baldwin Community Schools, we recognize that reading is a critical step toward our students succeeding inside and outside the classroom, and eventually in careers. I would like to thank our staff and Chartwells K12 for organizing this fun and educational experience for our students and Sigma Alpha Epsilon for its continued partnership in helping our Panthers succeed.”