Here’s a novel way that the Clearview Elementary PTA in Clear Lake, Minn., is supporting literacy while also forging special bonds between students and their elders. A team of about 50 1st and 2nd graders are paired with 35 seniors at two retirement centers. Each student reads at least two books to the seniors on each visit. The idea for the intergenerational reading program was inspired by John Bowden, a foster grandparent at the school. The school was able to secure a grant that covered bus and material costs (around $5,400). The PTA has offered to fund the program when the grant runs out. Since the program began, teachers at the school have noted that there’s been an improvement in students’ reading skills.