LEWISTON – The stars will be out a little earlier than usual Wednesday evening as the Geiger/Montello Adopt-A-School Partnership celebrates its 19th annual “Night of the Stars” at Lewiston Middle School.

The event, free and open to the public, is an Oscar-style awards ceremony recognizing 80 talented young writers from among Montello Elementary School’s more than 900 kindergarten through sixth-grade students. Honored writers will arrive in stretch limousines, provided by Crown Limousine Service, between 5:15 and 6 p.m., followed by a two-hour award ceremony in the middle school auditorium.

“The cornerstone of all education is a student’s ability to read and write. The enthusiasm we put into this special evening is in keeping with the quality of teaching and writing exhibited at Montello School,” said Peter Geiger, executive vice president of Geiger.

State Sen. Peggy Rotundo and Marge Medd, former chairwoman of the Maine State Board of Education, will serve as presenters.

The young writers whose work was selected as representing the “best of the best” from among their peers will have their work published in a printed anthology. The book includes a hand-written letter of congratulations from award-winning children’s book author and illustrator Steven Kellogg, who visited with Montello students last spring.

The “Night of the Stars” is the signature event of the Geiger/Montello Partnership, dedicated to raising aspirations and recognizing excellence among students at Montello Elementary School. The thriving 19-year partnership began in 1988, when Geiger pioneered the Adopt-A-School program, which has since grown to include other area businesses and schools.

Since then, Geiger associates have mentored Montello students through careers days, Junior Achievement classes, job shadowing, e-mail buddy correspondence, lunchtime visits and gift drives, among other activities.

Go and do

What: 19th annual Night of the Stars

When: Wednesday, May 9

Where: Lewiston Middle School

Admission: Free and open to the public