Winter Literacyland Delivers 45,000 Free Books to Spring ISD Students, Spreading Holiday Cheer and the Love of Reading
More than 1,600 families from across Spring ISD and surrounding communities packed the halls of Dekaney High School on Dec. 12 to celebrate the power of books, holiday cheer, and community spirit during the district’s beloved Winter Literacyland event.
Now in its 10th year—and formerly known as Winter Wonderland—Winter Literacyland has grown into a Spring ISD tradition with a renewed mission: spark a love of reading and provide free access to books for families throughout the district. This year’s event did just that, giving away an incredible 45,000 free books to students and families, along with 500 LEGO kits, thanks to generous partnerships and sponsors.
“During this Christmas season, we’re proud to give families the gift of literacy,” said Tranita Carroll, Executive Director of Family and Community Engagement. “Our goal is to ensure every family can attend and leave with as many books as they want to build a home library. The turnout was amazing and truly shows how much our community values literacy.”
From pre-K to eighth grade, students explored a magical world of themed activity stations, live character interactions, and festive photo ops—many hosted by Spring ISD departments and volunteers. Beloved characters like the Cat in the Hat, princesses, the Grinch, and Mr. and Mrs. Claus filled the hallways, delighting kids and parents alike.
But Winter Literacyland wasn’t just about fun—it was also a powerful community moment, with parents volunteering side by side to create an unforgettable experience for all. Bethsaida Gonzalez, a first-time event volunteer and active PTO member at Roberson Middle School, shared her perspective on giving back.
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“This is such a wonderful annual event, and the activities for the kids are always amazing,” said Gonzalez. “I love how it encourages a love of reading, and it’s fantastic that so many free books are available for the children.”
Spring ISD Board President Justine Durant joined families and volunteers throughout the evening, taking in the sights and sounds of a school transformed by learning and laughter.
“It touches my heart to see the joy on our students’ faces and to invest in their growth,” said Durant. “Moments like these make every minute of the countless hours us board members dedicate to serving the district truly worth it.”
Adding to the evening’s magic was 7th grader Jasmine Rodriguez from Roberson Middle School, who volunteered as one of Santa’s elves. She brought her own sparkle to the event by greeting families at the popular Santa photo station.
“It was so nice to see the excitement on the little kids’ faces,” Rodriguez said. “I’m glad I volunteered and was able to be part of the holiday joy.”
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For many educators, the event also provided a chance to stock up on classroom materials and reconnect with students outside of the school day. First-time attendee Stephanie Aportadera, an ESL teacher at Bammel Middle School, called the experience one she wouldn’t forget.
“I love this event,” Aportadera said. “I love seeing the faces of the children and their excitement about being able to take books home. I’m even taking books back to my classroom for my students — what a beautiful event.”
Organized by Spring ISD’s Family and Community Engagement Department, Winter Literacyland continues to demonstrate how schools can serve as vibrant centers for both learning and connection. Key support for the event came from the Spring ISD Education Foundation, Spring AFT, Frost Bank, and Reading Opens the World, whose generosity made the 45,000-book giveaway possible.
The evening also welcomed special guests including State Rep. Charlene Ward Johnson, Jeffrey Kaiser and Monica Galvan from Neiman Marcus, and Joseph Russell from CW 39 Houston, who served as guest judges and helped bring extra sparkle to the festivities.
As the district looks toward a new year, events like Winter Literacyland continue to underscore the importance of community, engagement, and shared joy in building a strong educational foundation for every child. And thanks to the power of books—and the people who believe in their magic—many more Spring ISD students now have stories to call their own at home.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
