Graduation matters. It may seem obvious to many of us reading this, but to kids in elementary, middle and even high school, it may seem to be a stretch.

That’s why the Graduation Matters Committee, a group intending to get Libby kids on the right track, asked Libby coaches to send athletes to Libby Elementary-Middle School to interact with the younger kids.

April Rewerts, a five-year veteran teacher on maternity leave and a Committee member, was excited for the high school athletes to come read to the youngsters.

“Most of the teachers were very excited about having student-athletes come in,” Rewerts said. “Many have told me the students have been on their best attention.”

Graduation Matters and GEAR Up, for which Rewerts is a liaison, are two programs designed to allow Libby kids the most opportunities to enjoy a quality education.

The Western News caught up with Homecoming king Danny Leggins after he had read Dr. Seuss’ “Are You My Mother?” to Lacie Farmer’s kindergarten class.

“To see their faces light up,” Leggins said. “To hear them say ‘oh he’s the king!’ To know they will be in this position someday? It’s special.”

Leggins said the drive for students to want to be in school was why he leaped at the opportunity to help. 

Rewerts was pleased with the support from teachers, coaches, administrators and students.

“The committee is so new. It’s just getting started,” she said. “We are glad we can use community members to give them that support.”