Guest Reader Moments in Ypsilanti Community Schools: Turning Pages with Young Grizzlies in the Classroom

The Institute for STEM Education, Outreach and Workforce Development at EMU (also known as the EMU STEM Ed Institute) has recently established a literary partnership with the Our Community Reads Program, which is led by community organizer Kallista Marie Walker, who also serves as a member of the Advisory Board for Toyota’s Driving Possibilities initiative. One of the wonderful programs for Our Community Reads is the Topaze Reading Circle Initiative, which provides unique opportunities to bring guest readers into the classroom with elementary school students.

Dr. Sibrina Collins, Director, EMU STEM Ed Institute, has participated in the Topaze Reading Circle Initiative and served as a guest reader for  Erickson Elementary (February 28th), Holmes STEAM Elementary (April 3rd ), and Estabrook Elementary (May 2nd ), reaching 116 elementary school students (2nd – 5th grade). “We are thankful to Ms.Walker for inviting us to participate in the Topaze Reading Circle Initiative. If young people develop a love of reading and have a strong foundation in mathematics, they can accomplish anything,” said Collins.

The Ypsilanti Community School (YCS) students receive their own copies of STEM-focused books they can take home with them and a snack while reading in the classroom. Books and snacks are generously provided by the Toyota Foundation. The students have enjoyed reading and discussing the books, Let’s Fly: Barrington Irving’s Record Breaking Flight Around the World, and Whoosh! Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions. These STEM-focused books provide inspiring stories that truly resonate with young people.

“We certainly appreciate the YCS principals and teachers for allowing us to engage with the young scholars in the classroom,” said Collins. The teachers are provided with an opportunity to share anonymous feedback after the guest reader moments. One YCS teacher shared, “It is awesome for our kids to see a person of color in the field of science. More opportunities for our students to see and experience black excellence is inspirational.” Another teacher stated, “We loved having Dr. Sibrina Collins visit our class. The students keep the books they receive in their book bins at school and read them often.”

The guest reader moments in YCS elementary schools were a success. The EMU STEM Ed Institute will continue to participate in the Topaze Reading Circle during the 2025-2026 school year to encourage young people to develop a love of reading and get them excited about successful career pathways in STEM.