Sen. Shaheen sends special message to Londonderry students

LONDONDERRY - As the national election was looming, a U.S. senator from New Hampshire wanted to send a special message to local school children.

U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen took on a virtual opportunity to be a guest reader for students at Matthew Thornton Elementary School, to help highlight the school's book fair event running through Nov. 8

Shaheen read the book "Where the Sidewalk Ends" by Shel Silverstein, part of the author's collection of humorous poems that have been classics for decades.

"During such a difficult and stressful time for New Hampshire's children, reading has never been more important," Shaheen said. "It's such a powerful tool, allowing kids to be transported to new, faraway lands, create friendships with new characters, feel hope and alleviate uncertainty and doubt."

Shaheen added she is thankful to teachers and administrators at the Londonderry elementary school for allowing her the opportunity to read to the students.

"I applaud them for their tremendous work during this pandemic to keep up the spirits of their students and ensure they continue to get the best possible education," the senator said.

Shaheen had paid a visit to Matthew Thornton Elementary in August, meeting with school officials and seeing what safety measures the school had in place before reopening for the new school year.

To view Shaheen's video message, visit youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=F8lsS3wmQWc&feature=youtu.be. The video is also available on the Matthew Thornton Elementary PTA Facebook page.