DETROIT (GRPS) -- Third-grade scholars from Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Academy traveled to Ford Field for a day centered on literacy, learning, and an unforgettable visit from Detroit Lions star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown.
The Detroit Lions hosted the One Pride Literacy Fest, giving scholars the opportunity to explore multiple forms of literacy through hands-on activities. Michigan Chillers author Johnathan Rand guided scholars in writing their own short stories, while the Motown Museum introduced music literacy by helping scholars write and perform a song. Representatives from the University of Michigan Credit Union led a financial literacy session before giving scholars the chance to host a live Lions postgame-style broadcast.
Scholars also had the unique opportunity to take a class photo on the field at Ford Field.
“It was cool. I never been on the football field before,” said Aalaa, a third-grader at MLK. “It was like huge.”
One of the day's most memorable moments came when St. Brown made a surprise appearance and shared an encouraging message about the importance of reading.
“I realized as I got older how important reading was. Reading really sets the foundation for you,” he told scholars. “I’m so proud of you guys. Continue the hard work.”
The visit left a lasting impression on scholars.
"I think he's an all-time star," exclaimed Makai, a third-grader at MLK. "We got autographs. It was like the best day of my life."
"For our kids to be able to see a famous football player and him to talk about what literacy has meant to him, it was great," said Jackson-Bell. "Thank you to the Detroit Lions for giving us this phenomenal experience my scholars and I will never forget."
