The Tea Area Board of Education meeting on November 19, 2024, highlighted innovative strategies to promote reading among students from elementary through high school. Board members discussed various initiatives aimed at making reading more engaging and accessible for students.

One of the standout programs mentioned was the "Book Battles," organized by librarians for students in grades two through five. This initiative encourages students to read a selection of books and participate in friendly competitions. The program has seen enthusiastic participation, with entire classes getting involved. Librarians have had to manage the availability of books carefully, allowing students to borrow them for only three days to ensure everyone has a chance to read.

Additionally, the librarians focus on curating a diverse collection of high-interest books, including those with lower Lexile levels, to cater to different reading abilities. This approach helps younger students experience the joy of reading chapter books for the first time, fostering a love for literature.

The meeting also touched on the continued relevance of the "Book It" program, which rewards students for reading. Some teachers still implement this program, demonstrating its lasting impact on encouraging reading habits.

Overall, the discussions underscored the importance of exposing students to various genres of literature, as this exposure can help them discover their preferences and develop a lifelong love for reading. The board's commitment to enhancing reading initiatives reflects a broader goal of improving literacy and engagement in the Tea Area schools.