KINGSTON, Jamaica — Classrooms at Southborough Primary and Independence City Primary in St Catherine were filled with storytelling, laughter, and lively discussion on Tuesday as Pizza Hut Jamaica joined in the celebration of Read Across Jamaica Day through interactive reading sessions designed to make reading engaging and enjoyable for students.

This year’s Read Across Jamaica Day activities were held in support of the 2026 Child Month theme, ‘Prioritise Our Children’s Mental Health: Safer Minds, Safer Future’.

Pizza Hut Jamaica’s Marketing Officer Levene Sheriff, alongside members of the Pizza Hut Braeton restaurant team, spent the day reading with students from both lower-and upper-school grades while encouraging participation through classroom discussions and activities.

Students eagerly volunteered to read aloud and answer questions, with many receiving storybooks, branded bottles, pencil cases and bags, after taking part in the sessions.

“We can see how much students enjoy moments like these where they get to interact, express themselves, and simply have fun while learning,” said Sheriff.

“Beyond encouraging reading, moments like these also allow students to connect and enjoy a break from their normal classroom routine,” she added.

At Southborough Primary, Principal Carlyle Thompson welcomed the initiative, noting the positive response from students throughout the visit.

“I could see that the students were excited and fully engaged. It was a meaningful experience for them beyond the regular classroom schedule. There should be more days like this within the school year where students can interact with positive role models and community partners,” he shared.

The engagement continued at Independence City Primary where students from grades 4, 5 and 6 participated in reading and discussion activities that kept the classrooms energised.

“We truly appreciate you all for taking the time out of your busy schedules to be here with us today. The students were very happy to have you, and we only wish you could have visited all the classes. It was a wonderful experience for them,” said Principal Anne Geddes-Spence.

Both schools also received Pizza Hut meal vouchers to support their upcoming Children’s Day activities, while teachers from the participating classes received early Teacher’s Day gifts.

The visits formed part of Pizza Hut Jamaica’s wider school engagement efforts for Child Month and Teacher’s Day, through which teachers and administrators across St James, St Catherine, St Ann, Manchester and Clarendon will receive gift bags filled with Pizza Hut meal vouchers, personal items and school supplies in appreciation of their dedication to students.