Over 100 first through eighth graders will showcase art projects illustrating the world through their perspective, and receive awards as they graduate from the “Read to Lead Academy” at the Bethlehem Center on Thursday from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Bethlehem Center, 200 W. 38th St.
There will be children and parents riding a giant ladybug, rocket ship, and killer whale art bikes that blow bubbles. Students will reveal their documentary on the pressures teens face and illustrate poems and short stories. Nervous jitters and whispers will be in the air as elementary students prepare to perform their adaption of Lion King in colorful jungle ensembles and decorated headpieces.
The children graduating from the 6-week “Read to Lead Academy” are urban youth who spent the summer combating the violence in South Chattanooga through literacy, faith development, character development, arts education, leadership training, economic empowerment, and gang prevention programs.