‘Reading signs’ foster a love of reading in students, staff

Fostering a love of reading in Bellefonte Area School District through a project that allows its employees to highlight the books they read throughout the school year, is just one way reading initiatives are supported. This particular drive comes with reading signs that are posted on the windows of classrooms that show the kinds of books teachers, and other faculty and staff members have read that sometimes inspire students to also grab a new book.

Secondary literacy coach Jackie Wynkoop and her elementary-level counterpart Nicole Kohlhepp enhanced the project this school year with accolades and prizes for those who participated.

“One of the key conditions that must be in place to foster a love of reading in students is for the adults in their life to be reading role models,” Wynkoop said. “Kids need to see that reading isn’t just for school; it’s something to do for fun, as well. It’s also a great way to start conversations with kids. We’ve had many students ask us about the books on our reading signs and ask for book recommendations.”

At the beginning of the school year, about half of district employees participated. That number jumped as the year progressed.

While this is just one way reading efficacy is instilled within the district, Wynkoop said there are also many other ways the district has focused on reading campaigns, such as growing classroom libraries and dedicating more time for choice reading with students during the school day.