Studies show that the most effective way to improve student success is to increase their reading time. At The Franciscan School, reading is a school-wide sport. Through the leveled library approach, we meet the needs of each student and nurture a love for reading that lasts a lifetime. 

Over the past few years, creating, funding, and expanding our leveled libraries has been a huge school initiative. Currently, we have tens of thousands of books to accommodate varying reading levels and interests. Our collection ranges from guided reading levels A-Z to resources for independent readers. 

Using the leveled library practice, we focus on three components; providing choice, increasing student engagement, and building reading independence. Our leveled library removes the “one size fits all” approach to reading by allowing each child to develop essential skills at his or her own pace. Instead of the traditional model of having the entire class read the same book, which some students might find too hard and some too easy. Students are placed in a group with other children who read at roughly the same level. In turn, teachers are more personalized and precise when helping students learn to read and in monitoring their progress. 

Our goal is to provide students with the resources to become lifelong readers, and to plant the seeds that make them want to read. Through level appropriate books that pique their curiosity and challenge them to get better, our students discover a world of possibility through literacy.

Want to learn more about The Franciscan School Reading Program and other resources? Visit www.thefranciscanschool.com/academics.