The weekly Senior Kindergarten Mystery Reader Program at Fern Hill School, an independent school in New Edinburgh, is delighting students and families alike. Every Tuesday, the classroom is buzzing with excitement as children eagerly try to guess which parent, grandparent, or special guest will walk through the door.

But these mystery readers bring much more than just a story. They bring a bridge to another language and culture. By incorporating bilingual mystery readers, whether English and French, English and Latvian, or English and Mandarin, the program celebrates the diverse cultures that represent the Fern Hill community. Hearing stories in multiple languages shows children that reading can connect us all, opening their eyes to the richness of the world around them.

Fern Hill School encourages family involvement in all aspects of learning, and the Mystery Reader Program is a perfect example of this approach. Teachers say the program sparks curiosity, conversation, and a love of reading while giving students a joyful way to see how language and culture shape our stories. For the Senior Kindergarten students, every Tuesday is a surprise full of laughter, learning, and the magic of discovery.