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Long Countys top readers treated with rodeo
MR rodeo limo
Students who had at least 100 points rode in a limo to the rodeo. - photo by Photo by Mike Riddle
LUDOWICI — Kids at Smiley Elementary School were rewarded for their hard work in the Accelerated Reading program with a rodeo on April 25.
More than 300 children in grades kindergarten, first, second and third grade were taken to the NC Ranch, where they were entertained with bull riding, calf roping, and all the other fun things that come with a rodeo.
The kids earned points throughout the year, by reading books and then passing a test. By building their AR points they qualified to attend the event, called “The End of the Year Accelerated Reader Round-Up”.
Kindergartners had to earn five points, which meant they read at least 10 books. First graders had to earn 15 points, at least 30 books. Second graders had to earn 25 points, at least 50 books. And third graders had to earn 35 points, at least 70 books.
Kindergarten and first graders also got cupcakes at the rodeo, while the top six readers in each grade also received cowboy hats, bandannas and book key chains.
The second and third grade kids received the same as above, but also had a picnic lunch at the ranch, and played games including a calf scramble, tug-of-war, and a hay ride.
Those readers who earned at least 100 points also got to ride to the rodeo in a white Hummer limousine, and received gift baskets.
These students were Kenyadrick Tootle (+100 pts), Cameron Reeves (+100 pts), Savannah Clary (+100 pts), Brittany Deloach (+100 pts), Tatyana Smiley (+100 pts), Kamryon Wygant (+100 pts), Esterberto Garcia (+100 pts), Ambria Raymer (+200 pts) and Kylee Proffitt (+200 pts).
Also riding in the limo was the top reader from the school, Shelbi Campbell, who had over 300 points.
“I am proud of all of these students, they all worked hard, and deserve this special day,” Principal Sandy Jones said.
“Also a special thanks goes out the PTO for paying for the limousine for the kids,” she said.

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