NNPS students Read with Malcolm at two reading rallies
Posted: November 22, 2024
Former college and professional football player Malcolm Mitchell emphasized his other life's passion during two high-energy presentations the morning of November 21. These days he is an advocate for reading, spreading his message about the magical power of books far and wide.
Mitchell held Read with Malcolm reading rallies as the entire schools packed the gymnasiums at Sedgefield and Newsome Park elementary schools. Each student received a copy of his children's book "The Magician's Hat," which is one of two he has written.
"Newport News Public Schools and E3: Elevate Early Education co-hosted the events.
"I learned that if I wanted to be my best, I needed to be a reader," Mitchell said. "I am here today because I want to encourage you to be the best reader that you can be."
While speaking to local students, Mitchell wove in threads about his football career and the importance of reading to success in any endeavor. The events featured a magic show, Mitchell reading "The Magician's Hat" and telling his personal story of how he struggled with reading before learning to unlock the many messages that books hold.
Mitchell is a native of Valdosta, Ga., who played college football at the University of Georgia from 2011 through 2015. He was drafted by the National Football League and played the 2016 season at wide receive for the New England Patriots, which won the Super Bowl that season.
After retiring because of knee problems after one year of professional football, Mitchell expanded his Read with Malcolm youth literacy initiative by establishing his nonprofit Share the Magic Foundation.
He talked of striving as a youngster to practice reading as much as he practiced football, with reading proving much more difficult for him. His interactive presentations emphasized reading to succeed and encouraged students to aim high and continue reading throughout their lives.
"The point of the book is whatever you want to be when you grow up, there's a book out there to help you," Mitchell said.
