NREVSD Host a Successful Summer Reading Camp

This summer, 148 elementary-aged students from the New Richmond Exempted Village School District (NREVSD) participated in a six week long Summer Reading Camp Program.

This summer, 148 elementary-aged students from the New Richmond Exempted Village School District (NREVSD) participated in a six week long Summer Reading Camp Program.

This program was implemented several years ago in an effort to meet the reading needs of early elementary students. “By using end-of-the-year DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) testing data, we strived to close any reading gaps that existed,” stated one of the program teachers, Mr. Greg Chandler. “Additionally, we aimed to show growth for each student participating in the summer program.”

Each day, NREVSD food services provided students with a breakfast to jump start their morning. From there, students were divided into small groups for specialized and targeted instruction based on testing data. Under the direction of 23 teachers, students were able to receive individualized attention and were tested weekly for progress. Additionally, the New Richmond Branch librarian made a weekly trip to read to the students.

As each day would draw to an end, students would receive lunch and anxiously await for the “Camper of the Day” to be announced. Chandler stated, “Each teacher would select a camper that they felt best represented the goals of the summer school program for that day, and recognize them in front of everyone.” With positive public recognition in front of their peers, this seemed to be a highlight of the day for many of the students as they took pride in their hard work.

“The students that attended the camp enjoyed being there each day, and there was a positive working environment which led to many successes,” stated Chandler. As the data from the summer rolled in, positive growth was reflected across the board throughout grade levels and buildings.

Posted Friday, September 8, 2017