By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
What began as a simple idea in 2016 has grown into one of King George Public School’s most cherished weekly traditions. Every Friday, students gather with a mix of excitement and curiosity as the school’s Mystery Reader program brings surprise guests into classrooms to share stories, spark conversations and inspire a love of reading.
The program launched in November 2016 with former teacher and well‑known community figure Pete Cobb as the inaugural reader. Since then, it has evolved into a signature literacy initiative that draws families, local leaders and even national athletes into the school.
Students receive clues throughout the week, building anticipation until the guest finally steps through the classroom door. The reveal is always met with cheers, wide eyes and eager smiles.
“The sheer delight on our students’ faces when a member of our community walks through the door is truly infectious,” said principal Danielle Maryschuk. “This program does more than just share a story; it bridges the gap between our classrooms and the wider Chatham community, showing our students that reading is a lifelong joy shared by people from all walks of life.”
The goals of the program are rooted in literacy and community connection: fostering excitement around reading, introducing positive role models, strengthening early literacy skills and helping students understand the many roles people play in their community.
Over the years, the school has welcomed an impressive roster of readers. In 2018, WNBA star Bridget Carleton surprised students by bringing the entire Iowa State Basketball Team to read Alli’s Basketball Dream. Police officers, firefighters, radio hosts, military veterans and Lambton Kent District School Board directors of education have all taken part.
The visits often turn into meaningful conversations. Students ask thoughtful questions — sometimes catching guests off guard — about bravery, service and personal experiences.
“One of the most touching parts is that we don’t just see students learning from our readers, we see our readers learning from our students, too,” said kindergarten educator Brittney Brown. “There are moments when a guest will pause, smile and say they’ve never been asked a question like that before.”
The success of the Mystery Reader program has inspired other schools across the Lambton Kent District School Board to adopt similar initiatives, spreading the tradition’s spirit of curiosity and connection.
For King George, the weekly ritual has become more than a literacy activity — it’s a celebration of community, storytelling and the belief that a school can feel like family.
