NEA's Read Across America comes to Cedar Rapids

DES MOINES, IA (03/01/2010)(readMedia)-- Like a true rock star, he travels with "handlers." His appearances have been known to generate near pandemonium, as fans of all ages try to get hugs, photos or the chance to declare love and appreciation.

Cedar Rapids hold onto your stovepipe hats....The Cat in the Hat is coming to town!

Students from Cleveland, Harrison, Taylor and Wilson elementary schools will sport the beloved cat's signature red and white hats as he and special guests come together at the Theatre Cedar Rapids and join the Cedar Rapids Education Association for the National Education Association's Read Across America Midwest tour, a very special celebration of reading. Each student will get to take home a book of their very own while their school library receives a $1,000 cash grant.

Cedar Rapids is one stop on the NEA's Read Across America Midwest tour with other events taking place in Milwaukee, WI, and Evansville, IN.

WHO: Cedar Rapids Education Association and hundreds of students from Cleveland, Harrison, Taylor and Wilson elementary schools join Cat in the Hat to celebrate Dr. Seuss and Read Across America.

WHY: Helping children develop good reading skills is an important factor in student achievement and lifelong success. Sponsored by the Cedar Rapids Education Association and the National Education Association, Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.D. and more than 50 national partners, NEA's Read Across America is designed to get kids excited about reading.

WHEN: Wednesday, March 3, 10:00am - 11:30am

WHERE: The Theatre - Cedar Rapids, 102 Third Street, SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

Visit www.nea.org/readacross for more reading tips, book lists and information on local events happening nationwide. Photos, video footage, public service announcements and other Seuss-tastic downloads are also available