“Still Wild about Reading” is the theme for Albany Middle School’s annual reading campaign. To start the year-long campaign, the student body and faculty participated in a pep rally led by community member and former Albany Middle School teacher Coach Jesse Massey. Massey invigorated the crowd with his larger than life voice and enthusiasm for reading.

Former Albany Middle School student Emmanuel Byrd was the main speaker at the rally. Emanuel is an honor roll student and the starting quarterback for Albany High School. He spoke to the students about reading for their own benefit and encouraged them to listen to their teachers.

The crowd also enjoyed performances by Albany High’s marching band, cheerleaders, and dance line along with Albany Middle’s own cheerleaders and dance line.