Former Buffalo Bill and Pro-Football Hall of Famer Andre Reed made a special appearance at a Buffalo Public school Friday. WBFO's Focus on Education Reporter Eileen Buckley says Reed was the inspiration for a book written by a teacher at the D'Youville-Porter School #3 on the city's West Side.
Students in Kindergarten through 2nd grade were encouraged to preserve and work hard in the classroom. That was the message from Special Education Teacher Roselyn Kasmire. She authored the book.
"Billy Buffalo's Big Catch." She says was inspired by Reed's perseverance as a pro-football player
"The kids love Billy Buffalo and I wanted to write a story about the Buffalo Bills with Billy Buffalo doing something, overcoming something and persevering and not giving up is a very good message," said Kasmire.
WBFO News asked Reed how he felt to be the inspiration for the book.
"It's very inspiring to me," said Reed. "As a kid, I really didn't despise reading, but reading was not one of my thing and I always wanted to be outside and in recess, but it's very important and to be a part of this book, and the message to the kids is really good," responded Reed.
Reed encourages parents to make sure they are engaged to support their school work.
"Just be there. Listen to your kids," said Reed.
