Students in Sara DenHerder’s third-grade class at Daniel Elementary in Kent had a special visitor read to them last Friday.
U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert, R-Auburn, visited with the class and read Dr. Suess’ “Oh, The Places You’ll Go.”
Reichert’s visit was part of Read Across America, a nationwide reading celebration that takes place annually and coincides with Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March 2.
“I love to read to the kids,” Reichert said. “I love to come to schools. It is really the perfect time to deliver positive messages.”
The book’s message fit perfectly with the conversation Reichert had with the class before reading.
He asked the students what they wanted to be when they grow up, which elicited responses including football player, police officer, veterinarian, lawyer, engineer and president.
“All the things you were thinking about doing, you can do,” Reichert said.
Riechert, who grew up in Renton and Kent and attended Kent Junior High (now Mill Creek Middle School) and Kent-Meridian High, said he never imagined he would be a congressman.
Reichert, who makes Auburn his home, was elected to Congress in 2004, after working in law enforcement for 33 years, including eight years as King County Sheriff.
“I was one of the shyest kids in school,” he said. “I would hide because I was afraid the teacher would call on me and I didn’t know all the answers.”
He told the class now he is comfortable speaking to crowds and often gives speeches.
Reichert fielded questions about his job as a congressman from the inquisitive third-graders. One student asked Reichert if he knew George Washington, to which Reichert replied that he was old, but not that old.
Reichert kept the students engaged while reading the story, walking around the room and pausing to ask questions.
Following the story, Reichert asked the students what they learned from the book and encouraged them to respect and help one another.
“That’s what is going to make our world a better place,” he said.
The visit wrapped up with a class photo with congressman.
The students thanked him for visit with handshakes and hugs.
Daniel Elementary Principal Patty Drobny said it was a treat to have Reichert visit the school.
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