Topeka ? Alexandra Ewy, a first-grader at Sunflower School, held up a sign that simply stated: “Read to Me.”

Ewy, 6, was on hand Tuesday during a news conference to announce the annual Kansas Children’s Report Card, which gives a letter grade on how well society is tending the needs of children.

Kansas received an overall grade of “B,” as did Douglas County in the grade put together by the children’s advocacy group Kansas Action for Children.

In 2001, Kansas had a grade of C-plus, while Douglas County had a B-plus.

The overall grade is based on sub-grades on children’s safety, health, education, issues affecting teens and the adequacy of child care. For 2002, Douglas County received a C-plus for safety, B-plus for health, A for education, B for teen issues and C-plus for child care.

At the news conference, Ewy said adults needed to read to children and make sure that children have books to read on their own.

Eight students from Bishop Seabury Academy also attended the rally.