The Program
How do we become better readers?? We become better readers the same way we improve at other skills: We practice! Accelerated Reader is a program that ensures reading success for every child by encouraging students to read independently at a reading level that is appropriate for them. It provides not only the time for reading, but also the motivation to want to read.

How Parents Can Help:
• Encourage extra reading time at home. Reading with and to your child is important too! We encourage students to read at least 15 minutes each day at home.
• Encourage your child to discuss what they are reading.
• Watch for the T.O.P.S. reports to come home and praise your child for their success!
• Visit the public library with your child. Many libraries have Accelerated Reader book lists available.

The Process:
• Students take the S.T.A.R. test to learn their reading level "ZONE". That is a comfortable instructional reading level that also provides enough challenge for maximum growth.
• Students check out A.R. Library books that have been color coded by zones to read at school and at home.
• Teachers provide 45 to 60 minutes of independent reading time each day.
• Students take a computerized quiz on the books they read. They receive instant feedback on comprehension and are awarded points based on their score and the level of the book. They should score at least 85%.
• During Accelerated Reader time in the classrooms, teachers monitor each student for success and progress through daily logs and conversation with each student. Students have opportunities to share about books that they have enjoyed.
• A T.O.P.S. report is printed and sent home to parents after a student takes a test. This provides parents with information about their child's progress as well as an opportunity to celebrate their child's success.
• Teachers monitor students' quiz scores. Consistent scores below 85% may indicate reading skills that need to be taught or that a student may need to change zones. Consistent scores above 92% may indicate that the student is ready to go to the next higher zone.
• As students improve in their reading ability, they move up in reading level.
• Students accumulate points as they work towards individual, class, and school goals.

The Goals
• To improve reading skills
• To provide an opportunity for all students to read independently
• To ensure success for each student as a reader
• To build student's self confidence
• To inspire a love of reading
• To develop lifelong learners