El Segundo, CA- On Monday, March 1, Horace Wormely and Gabriel Hughes of the Los Angeles D-Fenders participated in the Read Across America initiative, which is annually celebrated on Dr. Seuss’ birthday (March 2). In celebration of the great author’s birthday, Wormely and Hughes visited Echo Horizon Elementary to engage with elementary school kids at their recess and educate them about the importance of reading.

Echo Horizon School bases their curriculum on educating hearing, deaf and hard of hearing children in an inclusive environment in which self-reliance and mutual respect are valued and encouraged. The school strives to produce successful, creative students who count independence and self reliance among their basic skills and who can apply their knowledge and learning abilities throughout a lifetime.

The Los Angeles D-Fenders joined in the Read Across America movement to encourage the students at Echo Horizon to read, educate them on the importance of reading and to generate enthusiasm in the classroom. Wormely and Hughes participated in this movement by spending time with over 200 kids at Echo Horizon and discussing the importance of reading and doing well in school. After spending time with kids during their lunch period, the players read the Dr. Seuss classic, Oh the Places You’ll Go to a group of second graders. Throughout the story the players engaged the students and encouraged their involvement in reading activities.

The D-Fenders are proud supporters of Read Across America and will continue to be positive role models in their community by encouraging students to engage in the classroom.