Gilley Pool is a popular spot during the warm summer months, but it was even more special Friday with a Ready to Learn Back-to-School Party.
Youngsters under 12 were admitted free to the pool if they donated a children’s book. The books will be distributed to Head Start centers in the county, so it’s children helping children.
Ready to Learn WCTE coordinator Cindy Putnam said, “This helps parents learn how to be their child’s first teacher and get them ready for school and eager to learn.”
Visitors had the opportunity to meet PBS Kid’s character Cat in the Hat. WCTE Upper Cumberland PBS shared educational PBS Kids mobile apps to families for download. Free books were also provided by the Children’s Reading Foundation of the Upper Cumberland for attendees, encouraging families to read 20 minutes each day.
Three hundred backpacks filled with goodies were also given away during the event to excited children.
Along with WCTE, the event is co-sponsored by McMinnville Parks and Recreation, LBJ&C Head Start, Kohls and the Children’s Reading Foundation.
It was all hands on deck for Gilley Pool personnel, as hundreds of children and adults took advantage of the cool water on the 93 degree day.
Regular pool hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.; and Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m. Abbreviated pool hours are implemented beginning Aug. 14 once school gets back in session. Those hours are Saturday 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.