COCONUT GROVE, Fla. – Local 10 News received a warm welcome Wednesday from teachers and students at Francis S. Tucker Elementary School in Coconut Grove.
The entire school turned out for a courtyard celebration with colorful banners, thanking Local 10 for a substantial book donation to its depleted library.
"We received about 800 books," principal Annette Degoti said at the event. "And we set up enough on our tables behind me by grade level, so that every child takes home their very own brand new book to read at home. The remainder of the books will be used to fill our shelves here in the media center."
The students put on a performance about the joys of reading and sang a custom-written song, thanking Local 10 for the books.
With support from Miami-Dade Commissioner Xavier Suarez, the school has made a tremendous effort to put "books over bullets" since a nearby shooting left frightening bullet holes in a classroom.
Local 10 News reporter Todd Tongen had the opportunity to read a book to Ms. Barnes' first-grade class. The children listened intently, and the excitement and adventure could be clearly seen on their faces.
But perhaps the brightest moment came when they were surprised to learn each student would get to pick out a book to take home.