The Peru Gazette

Roy Perry listening to 2nd grader Hannah Charles reading

Roy offering praise and encouragement

Peru – “People don’t believe I’m 86 years old. Who do you know in their mid-80’s who works with a bunch of kids and has a good time?” That’s how Roy Perry describes his experience for the past 7 1/2 years as a volunteer at the Peru Elementary School. For 90-minutes, four mornings each week Roy helps second graders develop their reading skills. Working at a table at one of the school’s entrances he typically works for five to ten minutes with each student. Roy said, “The kids read a story. I time them, measure their progress and then I ask questions about the story. I try to get them thinking about what they’re reading. I always make sure to tell the kids they’re doing OK or outstanding. I always give them positive input.”

Roy’s Goofy face

While the reading program is structured, Roy Perry’s approach to the program is fun-filled. His quick wit, smiles and jokes enliven each lesson. Roy commented, “I tell them reading is fun. They can travel anywhere in the world by reading. I had one kid laughing so hard one time he fell off his chair.” Many students look forward to cuddling Larry the Lion, a mascot that Roy brings to school each day. Roy tells the kids that Larry loves to hear them read. At the end of each session Roy draws a funny Goofy face on the student’s paper.

Roy Perry has worked closely with Reading Intervention Coordinators Tierra Jaquish and Nicole Robbins. Tierra Jaquish said, “The kids love going to Mr. Perry. That’s a big highlight of their day. I am not sure that there are enough words to describe how truly lucky the second graders are to have Mr. Perry working with them.” Nicole Robbins commented, “Mr. Perry exemplifies a selfless man who takes time out of his day to support kids with reading. He lets the kids know they’re important and with hard work they can do anything….He amazes us with his intuitive nature towards the students. His smile and the twinkle in his eye are so contagious that it makes you want to be a better human being.”

Second grade teacher Bette Crowningshield said, “Mr. Perry is a gem. He works tirelessly with our students to increase their reading fluency…As we know the more time children read, the stronger a reader they become. Mr. Perry knows that and he’s up to the job.”

Roy Perry also knows that volunteering at the Peru Elementary School is an important part of his life. Retired for 22 years, he’s an active member of the Peru Community Church and the Peru Lions Club, but by the end of each summer he’s anxious for school to begin. He said, “When summer comes I almost go into withdrawal. I really miss going to school, interacting with the kids and teachers. This is one of the best things I could have done for myself in retirement. It’s been a great ride. I find it keeps me thinking young.”

The Peru Elementary students and staff agree. They would say Roy Perry not only thinks young, but acts young. He is truly a gem!