Pictured: Tobi Schnieder poses with Ms. McConnell's 2nd  grade class at Ashton Elementary during Embracing Our Differences Reading Day in March. Photo courtesy of EOD.

On March 11, Embracing Our Differences’ annual Reading Day reached 14,013 pre-K through third-grade students from 100 elementary schools and early learning centers in Manatee and Sarasota counties for a day of storytelling, connection and shared values. This year, 727 classrooms participated in the event, with students receiving a total of 14,740 books—an unprecedented milestone in the program’s history. For 11 years, Embracing Our Differences’ Reading Day has inspired thousands of young readers through this initiative, fostering meaningful conversations about inclusion, kindness and respect.

Pictured: Tobi Schnieder poses with Ms. McConnell's 2nd  grade class at Ashton Elementary during Embracing Our Differences Reading Day in March. Photo courtesy of EOD.