In commemoration of Read Across America Week (Feb. 23-27), the Mars Area Elementary School Library issued a “50 States Challenge” asking students in each classroom to read one book from each of the 50 United States throughout March.

Students (Grades 2-4) could read non-fiction books about a state; picture or fiction books that take place in the state; or books written by an author from a specific state, says Beverly Mack, library/media studies teacher. The students also completed a map to mark their progress.

The classes in each grade level that completed the challenge received an “extra fun” library class. Winners included Jessica Kozak and Jennifer Renner’s second grade classes; Julia Hamilton, Tracey Jones and Allyson Reilly’s third grade classes; and Kelly Hathazy and Brian Felicetti’s fourth grade classes.

For additional information, contact Mack at (724) 625-3161.