The theme at LaSalle Elementary is "Readers Today, Leaders Tomorrow."  To kick off the Fall Reading Incentive Program at LaSalle, Principal Kim Mims invited "tall" tale author and basketball star, Shaquille O'Neal to campus to motivate her students to read. 

The LaSalle student body and faculty greeted O'Neal in the school auditorium, where he spoke about the importance of learning how to read.  "I didn't learn how to read until the ninth grade.  I was a big dummy,"  O'Neal said.  "Don't be a big dummy."

From the moment he stepped on campus in his size 22 shoes, O'Neal had everyone's attention.  He quickly had the students in a good mood as he light-heartedly played with Mrs. Mims as she introduced him. 

O'Neal encouraged the students to read, pay attention in class, and respect their teachers and each other. 

While at LaSalle, O'Neal signed several basketballs.  The autographed basketballs are being used as incentive and will be awarded to students who successfully complete the Fall Reading Program.

 O'Neal also gave a slam dunk performance at Forest Heights Academy of Excellence.  Shaq rallied the students, teachers, and staff with his positive message of working hard and having respect for others.