Incoming kindergarten students in the Greater Amsterdam School District received a meaningful gift to begin their school journey, thanks to the generosity of community member Bob Swenson.
Swenson, the husband of retired GASD kindergarten teacher Jean Amy Swenson who passed away, established a literacy fund in her memory. Through this fund, he purchased 300 copies of How to Be Kind in Kindergarten for the district’s incoming kindergarten students. The book, designed for young readers, focuses on lessons about kindness and friendship, subjects that were central to Jean Amy’s teaching throughout her career.
The books were distributed at all four elementary schools during kindergarten orientation. Students received a copy of the book as they met their new teachers and classmates. At Marie Curie Institute of Engineering and Communications, Swenson was present to personally hand out books and support the distribution process.
The donation provided each kindergarten student with a copy of How to Be Kind in Kindergarten and supported the district’s efforts to promote early literacy. The books were distributed during orientation so students could take them home and begin reading immediately.
The district extends its appreciation to Swenson for his support of early literacy and for honoring the memory of Jean Amy Swenson. His gift allowed all incoming kindergarten students to receive a book and begin the school year with a focus on reading and learning.
Bob Swenson