I am constantly asked by parents, “How can my child get his or her SAT reading scores up?” Usually, my answer is a big disappointment to them, because there is no significant quick fix for raising the verbal score of the SAT or make up for reading deficits. The hard fact is: children who don’t read regularly are weaker readers than those who do. This has been documented thoroughly over time. The good news is: it is never too late to become a better reader, and summer is a prime time to do it. In fact, reading can actually be very enjoyable! Many students don’t know this because the only reading they have done is under pressure at school.
After a great deal of thought, I have come up with a pioneer program – the Summer Reading Challenge – which provides the motivation and structure needed to help your child acquire necessary literacy skills while having a positive experience. I will work one on one with your child, customizing the program based on his or her individual needs. Every time your child finishes a book, I will meet with him or her face to face or by Skype or phone to discuss vocabulary and comprehension, as well as other reading related topics geared toward the idea that reading is interesting and not a chore. I can’t force this opinion, but I can certainly model it, encourage it and facilitate it.
This program is available to students entering grades 9-12 and costs a minimal fee of $100 for four one-hour sessions (one hour per book), the minimum requirement. If your child wants to read more than four books, I will meet with him or her for free to discuss every additional book read. When your child completes the Summer Reading Challenge, he or she will earn the right to list the program on his or her college resume. I will also be glad to write a personal letter of recommendation for college.
I know many of you are wondering whether this program will include the required Upper School summer reading book. The answer is no. However, once the student has read the minimum four books, I’ll be happy to discuss the required summer reading book with them at no charge. The completion deadline for the Summer Reading Challenge is the first day of school – Monday, Aug. 16.
Once you or your child contacts me, I will meet with him or her to discuss a personal book list and schedule. This is best done sooner than later, so call or e-mail me any time:
Jean Bonnyman
Upper School Learning Specialist
