Back in August of last year, the students would squirm like worms after a simple 10 minutes of silent reading. I couldn’t blame them, so many of my classroom books were worn out and stained with who knows what. Some books were even missing covers, taped together, and the pages had turned that faded blue that we all secretly question. The Boxcar Children series which was once a favorite now hung on by a thread – literally. However, by June after 45 minutes of silent reading when I now say our D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Read) time is complete they will beg for more time and sigh at the thought of leaving their worlds of adventure, laughter, and story. What changed? Lots.
This year was unlike any other at Los Angeles Christian School (LACS), or so I hear. Due to the generosity of our student sponsors, our school was able to purchase the Accelerated Reader (AR) program for the next 3 years to challenge our students and strengthen their reading skills. As a classroom teacher of a grade that usually makes or breaks future reading patterns, I was skeptical but very excited. I quickly learned that AR works wonders! The same students who once tiptoed around the library were now reading an entire book each week, and passing comprehension quizzes! I saw reading levels jump from an early 2nd grade level to a late 4th grade level within a matter of months! Their love for reading was contagious; I had no choice but to give them more time to read.
Our student sponsors once again blessed us in May and gave each child and classroom some money to purchase books at the Scholastic Book Fair. The night of, as the doors opened, children came streaming in with smiles beaming across their faces. They no longer rushed for the Lego games or random toys, but students young and old alike desired books to help them reach their AR goals or share with a sibling at home.
As the year came to a close, I discovered that six of my 3rd Grade students read over 1,000,000 words this year! Without the help, support, and generosity of our student sponsors, these students may have never had the opportunity, resources, and excitement to reach such a goal.
I want to thank every single one of our LACS student sponsors for helping us ignite a love for reading in our students. When they enjoy reading, they perform well in all subjects and learn more than we could ever teach within our four walls. A love for reading will continue with them forever and always keep their minds open and sharp. Thank you to our sponsors – we couldn’t have done this without you!
July is our month of gratitude! Read more from our leaders, missionaries, and empowered indigenous leaders.
