YOUNGSTOWN - Harding Elementary of Youngstown City School District has been celebrating Read Across America throughout the first week of March, with guest readers from the Youngstown government coming in as guest readers.

"We were honored to host such a meaningful and interactive literacy event for our scholars," said Harding Principal David Brennan. "Read Across America promotes literacy and encourages our scholars to dream big and explore various career possibilities."

The event was organized by Harding teacher Shannon Sefcik, who has run and overseen the event every year they have had it.

The guest readers consisted of prominent Youngstown government and municipal figures such as Mayor Tito Brown, Judge Anthony D'Apolito, the Youngstown Fire Department, Youngstown schools superintendent Jeremy Batchelor, and members of the city council and board of education.

The guests, alongside reading to the students made sure to inform them on what they do for the city of Youngstown.