Deauville Gardens East Elementary School held its annual literacy night for kindergarten through second grade on March 6. Students listened to the story “You Matter” by Christian Robinson and discussed its central message that all people are important and have value, regardless of their differences.

Following the read aloud, students participated in a variety of games and activities. To enhance their social-emotional learning skills, they gave classmates a genuine compliment that ended with the phrase “you matter.” They also created an affirmation poster with a photograph of themselves as the centerpiece. Students showcased their creativity, decorating the background of their poster and filling it with affirmation words that resonated with them. All participants went home with two books, a copy of “The Eraser” and a second book of their choice.