The Accelerated Reader program has been used successfully in thousands of schools across the country. The benefits are marked growth in reading comprehension and increased reading scores. The program is designed to improve children's reading and comprehension skills in a computer-based format that is both fun and motivational. The system provides a clear program of goals and recognition that motivates the student to read more. Students are recognized for improving the quality and difficulty of their reading level. It truly inspires them to read more often and to read more challenging books. Perhaps just as valuable, it helps develop a life-long love of reading.

The Accelerated Reader combines the best children's literature with intuitive software that tests comprehension. The software also manages all student records and reliably tracks reading performance. It's based on three simple steps that form the foundation for self-paced, individualized reading:

1. Select a book. Students make their own choice from a wide selection of outstanding and popular titles on the Accelerated Reader book lists (over 4,500). Yellow tags readily identify these books in our media center inventory. The titles range in reading level from first grade through the tenth grade. In addition to the school library, participating books may be used from home or public libraries. Point levels are assigned to the book, from 0.5 points on the beginner books on up to 19 points for the larger, more difficult books. More books and tests are being added to broaden the selection.

2. Read the book. Students then read their books at their own pace. Teachers may elect to set aside time during scheduled class periods or assign independent reading time. Home reading time is highly encouraged. We suggest having family reading nights, where you leave the TV off, and the whole family reads together (children learn by example).

3. Take the test. Students love to take book tests on the computer! The 5-, 10-, or 20-question multiple-choice test is carefully designed to verify that the student has read the book. With the test completed, the computer instantly reveals how many questions the student answered correctly, and awards reading points based on the book's length, reading level, and number of correct answers. If the student passes the test, the teacher can rest assured he or she really has read the book, and comprehends it. The program provides an instant score and immediate reinforcement in a way that's both encouraging and fun.


To participate in the program, your child must take and pass the "STAR" test. This test assesses the vocabulary and reading skills and determines a reading level suited to that child. Kindergartners will be allowed to take the "STAR" test after the winter break.

The points earned and accumulated can be used to "purchase" prizes at the "Accelerated Reader Shopping Cart". Other individual and class recognition awards (A.R. "Club 2K", and Wall of Fame) will be given as certain point levels are attained.