Yuba County Sheriff’s Deputy K. Jahnsen reads to students during a Read Across America classroom visit earlier this month as part of a countywide effort by local law enforcement agencies to promote literacy and connect with youth. Photo courtesy of the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office

YUBA-SUTTER, CA (MPG) - Law enforcement officers across Yuba and Sutter counties traded patrol duties for story time earlier this month as they visited local classrooms to participate in the nationwide Read Across America program. Officers and deputies from the Yuba City Police Department, Marysville Police Department, the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office and the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office spent time reading books to students and answering questions about their work during visits to several area schools.

Marysville Police Officer W. Ross displays drawings from students during a Read Across America visit, when officers visited local classrooms to read stories and encourage a love of books. Photo courtesy of the Marysville Police Department

Read Across America, an annual literacy initiative launched by the National Education Association, encourages adults across the country to promote a love of reading among children. The program is often celebrated around March 2, the birthday of author Dr. Seuss, although many schools host events throughout the week. Local officers used the opportunity not only to read stories but also to connect with students and talk about the importance of education and community.

Yuba City Police Officer Olander reads to students at King Avenue School during Read Across America celebrations earlier this month. Photo courtesy of the Yuba City Police Department

At King Avenue School in Yuba City, Officer Olander of the Yuba City Police Department visited classrooms and read “The Cat in the Hat” to students while answering their questions. Deputies with the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office visited multiple schools across the county, reading to classes of various grade levels and interacting with students during the weeklong literacy celebration. Marysville police officers also spent time in local classrooms reading stories and encouraging students to develop a love of books and learning. Meanwhile, deputies with the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office visited several schools throughout the county, using the program as an opportunity to build trust with students while sharing stories and discussing safety.

A Sutter County Sheriff’s deputy reads to a classroom of students during a Read Across America visit at a local school. Deputies visited multiple schools throughout the weeklong literacy event. Photo courtesy of the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office

According to the agencies, the visits are part of broader community outreach efforts aimed at building positive relationships with young people. Officials said programs such as Read Across America help show students that law enforcement officers are approachable community members and trusted adults who support their schools and neighborhoods.