The elementary grade levels of Creative Technologies Academy challenged one another to a reading race throughout the month of March. Since March was designated throughout the State of Michigan as “Reading Month” the first grade made a challenge to the rest of the elementary at a kick-off celebration in late February. When asked about the challenge, Mrs. Jamie Pressler, first grade teacher and originator of the challenge said, “Utilizing a school-wide challenge is not only fun for everyone involved, but it truly gets the kids’ noses in books because they want to read and do well to help their classes, not just because they have to.” The challenge stated that if a student reads for a certain length of time with an adult then those minutes allowed their class to move the racecar along the “reading racetrack” in an effort to win the race!

Every Monday and Thursday the entire elementary school came together to cheer on their race car, as the teachers were able to move their cars according to how many minutes their class read that week. Kyle Bohl, Director of Student Services stated, “It was great to hear young people reading throughout our classrooms, hallways, offices and playground throughout March. Students took charge of their own learning and when that happens it’s definitely authentic.” Many students were able to read with an adult of their choice at school if they did not have an opportunity to read at home with a parent or guardians.

A celebration of enjoying rootbeer floats as an entire elementary was the culmination to a wonderful month full of reading. The class with the most minutes read was honored in an extra special way, however, with this race, everyone won!