A CALIFORNIAN primary school has been criticised for allowing a former porn star to participate in a programme aimed at encouraging children to read.

Sasha Grey was photographed reading the children’s book Dog Breath to pupils at an elementary school in Compton, California last week.

TMZ reports that Grey released a statement yesterday in response to criticism aimed at the school for allowing her to take part in the programme. Reaffirming her commitment to the reading promotion, Grey said:

I am an actor. I am an artist. I am a daughter. I am a sister. I am a partner. I have a past that some people may not agree with, but it does not define who I am.

I believe in the future of our children, and I will remain an active supporter and participant in education-focused initiatives.

Grey also thanked the Read Across America project for their support of her participation. Read Across America has been supported from a range of sports stars, celebrities and politicians including Serena Williams, Garth Brooks and Barack Obama, and it aims to encourage children to read more all year round.