Valley Grange #144 Celebrates “Dictionary Days” and their “Words for Thirds” program with Local Schools

Members of Valley Grange #144 are once again celebrating Dictionary Days and Words for Thirds with 5 area schools throughout the region. This annual literacy outreach brings smiles, excitement, and a love of learning to local third graders as they each receive their very own dictionary.

Recently, Walter Boomsma, a longtime member of the Valley Grange team visited Ridgeview Elementary School in Dexter, where WABI-TV5 joined them to capture the fun and enthusiasm of the day.

For more than two decades, Valley Grange has proudly presented these dictionaries to students as part of The Dictionary Project. Over the years, the team has developed a dynamic 45-minute presentation that blends lessons in dictionary skills, the history and values of the Grange, and hands-on learning activities designed to keep students engaged and inspired.

During each presentation, students learn about the Grange’s agricultural roots and tools—such as the spud, pruning hook, shepherd’s crook, and owl—each symbolizing important values like leadership, kindness, and stewardship. Students are also introduced to basic dictionary skills and challenged to “look it up!” as they explore new words together.

The program closes with a reminder of the importance of stewardship—taking good care of their new dictionaries, just as farmers take care of their land and tools. The excitement and curiosity in each classroom make Dictionary Days one of Valley Grange’s most anticipated community events of the year.

To learn more about Valley Grange’s Dictionary Project and their ongoing commitment to literacy and community service, visit the Valley Grange website or follow them on Facebook for photos and updates.

(Video courtesy of WABI-TV5 and Walter Boomsma)