February 29, the NEA kicked off the “Read Across America Tour – Driven by Mazda,” as children were visited by the Lorax himself.

The nation’s largest reading event of 2012 will visit 20 cities on the East and West coasts, and stop at public schools and Mazda dealerships to bring the joy of reading to thousands of public school students and help to raise $1 million for public school libraries.

The Read Across America Program is the NEA’s signature literacy effort to help children develop a love of reading during their early years.

Studies show that students who enjoy reading perform better in school, boast higher test scores, develop comprehension proficiency and improve analytical skills faster and better than their peers who read less frequently.

The “Read Across America Tour” will focus on sharing the story of Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax” with students, raise awareness for public schools in need and provide an opportunity for consumers to show that they care – as the Lorax teaches us – “a whole awful lot.”

For each test drive of a Mazda vehicle between Feb. 21 and April 2, Mazda will donate $25 towards public school libraries. Administered by the NEA Foundation, this donation will provide vital funds to help the nation’s struggling public school libraries.

To participate, consumers must first obtain a certificate online and take it to any Mazda dealer in the U.S. The dealer will then validate the certificate upon completion of the test drive. Funds raised through the test drives will be donated to the NEA Foundation and will be awarded to public school libraries nationwide through an application process in the spring.

Bonus!

My friend, Rachael Herrscher, founder of Today’s Mama, recently posted Four Lorax Apps for children. They’re hilarious and educational at the same time. I especially like the Lorax Garden app for the iPhone. Children can create and send postcards to friends and family. Think spelling, writing, and reading.

Are you part of the Lorax craze? Have you read this Dr. Seuss book in your school?