Get AI Briefings, Transcripts & Alerts on Local & National Government Meetings — Forever.
Parents urge Desert Sands Unified to keep Accelerated Reader at James Monroe
Summary
Multiple parents told the board their students rely on the Accelerated Reader (AR) program and asked the district not to eliminate it without a researched replacement; the district said it will improve communication and noted research questions about AR's effectiveness.
Parents and volunteers urged the Desert Sands Unified School District board to retain the Accelerated Reader (AR) program at James Monroe Elementary, saying the program produces measurable gains and motivates young readers.
"Please do not eliminate the Accelerated Reader Program," said Therese Lube, an active volunteer and school-site council member, who described her second-grade daughter rising to a fifth-grade reading level after AR was introduced. Lube cited research and family experience in asking the board to preserve the program rather than replace it with online alternatives.
Glenn Lube, a parent and volunteer, told the board that his school community recently fundraised to keep AR licensing and warned that removing the program without a strong evidence-based replacement would harm students who benefit from guided reading support. "Decisions that directly affect our children's education should be transparent and thoughtfully planned," he said.
Other parents at the meeting echoed those concerns, describing daily AR use in first and second grade and asking whether sites could continue AR licensing through PTO funding until a vetted alternative is in place.
The district acknowledged the parents' concerns and said it would communicate more clearly with school sites. "We are sharing information with them that there is a lot of research out there that indicates that AR does not have the desired results," said Dr. May Vollmer, adding that the district recognizes i-Ready is not a replacement and that school sites may still discuss AR locally. She said staff would ensure schools understand available options and that the district wants to foster "a love of reading" and strong comprehension.
Board members said they would share the concerns with school sites and emphasized the need for a thoughtful transition if changes occur. Trustee Pierce suggested site councils review how the tool is used and whether it should remain at individual schools.
The board did not take a formal vote on AR during the meeting; instead, staff committed to follow up with clearer guidance to school sites and to communicate alternatives and evidence to parents and staff.
Next steps: the district will send a Friday letter explaining how sites may approach AR and what, if any, replacements or pilot options staff recommend.
