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Simpson Academy has been working to revamp and improve their Accelerated Reader program, with the purpose of changing students’ outlooks on reading. For the past three weeks, select students at Simpson Academy have been participating in a pilot reading program that coordinators have named “Step Up 360.” Individualized student reading goals are made, and students are recognized along they way as they achieve different levels of their goals. In contrast to how Accelerated Reader has been done in the past, once students reach their overall reading goal, students are encouraged to keep going above and beyond their goal for even more levels of recognition and rewards.
Mrs. Emily Craft, a first year teacher at Simpson Academy is heading up the program. She recently performed a total overhaul of the elementary library/computer lab area, so that students can utilize that space effectively. She is currently working with the 1st and 3rd grade teachers participating in the pilot to make this program successful. She spends time in each of their classrooms daily, monitors student progress, and encourages the students to not only meet but exceed their goals. Craft is quoted as saying, “I am excited about implementing this program because our students’ ability to read well is what will determine their success throughout school and the rest of their lives. Our pilot group is excited about participating, and some have met their goals after only three weeks. I hope that all of our students will develop a love for reading through this program.”
Elementary principal, Marney Walker and SCA Headmaster, Billy Hankins are excited about the new program and potential results for next year. Hankins said, “We are always looking for new and different ways to improve the educational experience here at SCA. There has been a tremendous response by our students and teachers participating in this pilot. We are already seeing positive gains and can’t wait to see the results at the end of the trial.” Simpson Academy plans to make the new program available for all students in grades K4-6th beginning in the Fall of 2017.
Pictured:
John Caden Kennedy – 1st Grader who has met 100% of his Step Up 360 goal
Pictured: Jacy Mitchell – 3rd Grader who has met 150% of her Step Up 360 goal
