Invited by our Read Across America Committee, spearheaded by Kennadee Mosher, Langworthy read Dr. Seuss’ classic Oh, the Places You’ll Go! to the class. The story’s message about perseverance, courage, and believing in oneself served as the foundation for a discussion about setting goals and working hard to achieve dreams.

“Congressman Langworthy really did a great job of selecting a book and sharing with my class that they can do anything they set their minds to, which really ties into our school talk to setting goals to improve ourselves,” Mulcahey said.

Following the reading, Langworthy spoke with students about his own journey from attending Pine Valley Elementary School as a child to serving in the United States Congress. He encouraged students to stay focused, embrace challenges, and remember that their futures are filled with opportunity. He said success comes from dedication, resilience, and the determination to keep moving forward even when the path may seem uncertain.

To ensure that all Pine Valley Elementary students could share the experience, Langworthy graciously allowed the school to video record his reading. The recording will be shared with classrooms throughout the building.

Pine Valley Elementary School teachers are pictured with a copy of ‘Oh the Places You’ll Go!’ that Rep. Nick Langworthy, R-23, signed and then donated to the school library. From left are Amy Drozdziel, Holly Abers, Kennadee Mosher, Courtney Bradigan, Brianna Griewisch, Candy Campbell

To commemorate the day, Langworthy presented each student with a token to remember his visit and signed autographs at students’ requests. He also signed the copy of Oh, the Places You’ll Go! that he read and donated it to the school library, leaving a lasting reminder of his visit for future Pine Valley students.

“Having Congressman Langworthy visit our fourth graders connected beautifully with their social studies curriculum as they learn about government and civic responsibility,” said Brandi Meacham, school principal. “It also built upon last week’s flag education program presented by Steven Cybart and Jeffrey Levandoski from the Chautauqua County American Legion. These experiences help bring learning to life and allow our students to see active citizenship in action.”

During his time at Pine Valley, Langworthy took a tour of his former elementary school, reflecting on his years as a student.