Each year the Alpha Nu chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma facilitates a Write-Read-Write program. This program integrates the development of written communication through literacy. DKG is an international society whose members are recognized as outstanding educators. Each chapter promotes excellence in education, the success of young educators, and community involvement.
Walt Disney Elementary School in Levittown was the location of the 2026 initiative. On April 8, Mrs. Lorie Becker opened the magic doors to Disney’s 55 first grade students. Through her passion, organization, and planning, she put a book in each first grader’s hands and nurtured the advancement of literacy.
First grade teachers, Katelyn Renson and Devin Braman, were critical to the success of the program. Each teacher encouraged her class to write a letter to an Alpha Nu member, detailing their interest in reading and what types of books interested them. Each letter reflected the student’s best penmanship and drawing creativity.
Mrs. Becker collected the 55 letters and distributed them to members at the Alpha Nu December meeting. After that, it was Alpha Nu’s turn to do its homework. Each member carefully read the student letter and learned the interests of the child. Individually, members bought a book based on her student’s interest, placed a DKG label inside the book cover and wrote a letter to the first grader. These letters often communicated the member’s personal favorite stories of being in first grade, her love of reading, or her favorite genres.
The culminating activity for the program was the distribution of the colorfully wrapped books. With Mrs. Becker’s instruction, a group of DKG members walked down the hall to teachers’ classrooms. It was as if the walls were enchanted with the building that celebrates 70 magical years of Disney. The walk highlighted the themed classroom doors: “Wendy” and “Snow White.” Members walked into classrooms that ignited the excitement that every child deserves. Each room reflected creative student work, excellent classroom management, and a teacher that was as excited as the kids.
Each student was given his or her special book. It was wonderful to see that the kids were happy for each other. They looked around to see what others received and showed kindness toward them. Some students read their letters from Alpha Nu aloud, some to each other, and some quietly. Students were careful to keep the letter, as they will write back to the DKG member and thank her for the thoughtful gift.
The Write-Read-Write program, in collaboration with Walt Disney Elementary School, is a reminder of what is important for children. They deserve to be nurtured in a loving, safe environment, and be taught by skilled teachers who care about their future. Every school day should be engaging…that is the magic of Disney.
