Pictured Below: Hardin County Resident Circuit Judge Tara Cook reading to students at Hardin County CUSD #1.
In conjunction with the “Judges Go to School Day” and celebration of the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, Hardin County Resident Circuit Judge Tara Cook participated in a reading project of the Illinois Judges’ Association (IJA) for elementary school children. Judge Cook joined many judges across the state who made classroom appearances to read and discuss the history of President Lincoln on Thursday, February 12 when Court was not in session due to the holiday. The program is aimed at children in grades K-3 to encourage the appreciation, value, and enjoyment of reading. Through its “Page it Forward” program, the IJA also generously provided books to classrooms highlighting important figures in our nation's history, including our 16th President Abraham Lincoln.
Judge Cook commented on her involvement with the program stating, "It was truly an honor and a privilege to read to the Kindergarten, First, Second, and Third Grade classes at Hardin County CUSD #1. I had the pleasure of reading, Abe Lincoln's Hat, to each class, sharing with students that President Lincoln was a lawyer before becoming President, and answering their many thoughtful and engaging questions. At one point, the book described a Judge, and I asked the students what they thought a Judge looked like. One enthusiastic response described "a big, gray-haired man with a beard." I smiled and told them I would show them what a Judge looks like - then put on my judicial robe. The looks of surprise across the room were priceless. The fun continued as several students had the opportunity to try on the robe themselves, and even a few teachers joined in.”
For information on the “Judges Go to School Day” and “Page it Forward,” please contact the Illinois Judges’ Association at Illinois Judges Association, 321 S. Plymouth Court, 7th Floor, Chicago, IL 60604, (312) 431-1283 or visit www.ija.org.
