This year marked the 12th consecutive year of Gillispie’s annual Grade 2 Book Drive — a meaningful tradition that continues to teach students the importance of service, empathy, and community impact through hands-on action.
Thanks to the generosity of our students and families, the Grade 2 class collected an incredible 1,170 books this year. Through this experience, students learned about the importance of literacy in early childhood development and how access to books fosters confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. The book drive also encouraged students to think beyond themselves and recognize the ways they can positively contribute to their broader community.
This year, the books will benefit Family Health Centers of San Diego’s “Reach Out and Read” program, a new partner organization for the drive. Family Health Centers of San Diego provides healthcare services to uninsured, low-income, and underserved communities throughout the region. Through the "Reach Out and Read" program, healthcare providers give these books to young children during routine medical visits and guide parents on the importance of reading together at home.
We are so proud of our Grade 2 students for how they continue to show their community compassion and generosity.