Number of Participants: 8
Hours Donated: 4
Value of Time Served: $1,113
Event Type: Children & Youth
Activity: Club
School: Royalton-Hartland High School
Date: March 5, 2026
Location:
Royalton Hartland School District
State Street, Middleport
NY
About:
Student-athletes from the Roy-Hart Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) recently partnered once again with Roy-Hart Elementary School to support the district’s annual PARP (Pick A Reading Partner) event, bringing energy, mentorship, and a strong message about literacy to younger students.
This year’s theme, “Blast Off To Reading,” set the tone for an engaging and interactive experience throughout the month of March. Coordinated by PARP Event Coordinator and Special Education Teacher Stephanie Phillips, the initiative invited teachers to sign up for classroom visits from Roy-Hart student-athletes. During each 25-minute session, athletes read selected books and participated in lively question-and-answer discussions with students.
Kindergarten and first grade students especially enjoyed the opportunity to connect with the visiting athletes, asking questions about sports, favorite teams, favorite foods, and school experiences. Alongside the fun conversations, the athletes emphasized an important daily goal — encouraging students to read for at least 20 minutes each day.
The SAAC members thoughtfully selected books that reflected core values such as responsibility, accountability, hard work, teamwork, sportsmanship, and positive decision-making. By sharing these stories and modeling leadership, the student-athletes helped reinforce lessons that extend beyond the classroom.
For many elementary teachers, the event was particularly meaningful as they had the chance to reconnect with former students and witness their growth into confident leaders and role models. The visits highlighted not only academic development but also the strong character and commitment to service these young men and women continue to demonstrate.
Through initiatives like the PARP event, Roy-Hart student-athletes are making a lasting impact — inspiring younger students, promoting literacy, and strengthening connections across the school community.
