The Counseling Corner
By Rev. Judith T. Lester, B.Min. M.Th
“There is no friend as loyal as a book.” – Ernest Hemingway The Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) is the largest school district in Wisconsin. MPS is a publicly elected school board providing direction and oversight with a superintendent leading the administration. MPS has launched an initiative called: “MPS Reads.” The organizers of this project believe students who read in their free time are shown to be better readers, have a larger vocabulary, score higher on tests, and have greater content knowledge.
MPS Reads was designed as part of Superintendent Dr. Keith P. Posley’s Ambitious Instruction Plan, devised to increase achievement across the district. Upon assuming leadership of MPS, Posley identified reading, writing, and mathematics as key areas of focus. Promoting independent reading is one aspect of his plans to boost reading and writing proficiency.
“Nearly all reading is good reading,” said Dr. Posley. “We want students to engage with books that resonate for them. As students become more comfortable reading and their skill level increases, they will be more likely to select titles that demonstrate fine writing and deliver meaningful messages.”
On the MPS Reads webpage, it features a monthly list of recommended books for all ages on a broad range of multicultural topics that are meaningful for students. Visit MPS Reads webpage at: http://mps.milwaukee.k12.wi.us/en/Programs/Literacy/MPS-Reads.htm. The goal of the webpage is to:
• assist teachers, librarians, parents, and others in finding interesting books that will encourage and excite students to read more literature and informational text;
• suggest titles that allow students to see themselves, explore other cultures, and discover more about the world in which they live; and
• increase the volume of books students are reading independently to ignite a passion for reading.
Beloved, I don’t believe I need to outline the advantages of reading here. The bottom line is, getting books into the hands of children is the first step to literacy. While we live in an age of Internet, electronics and video games, reading still carries major benefits in our society. Let’s all play a role in promoting literacy not just during the month of May but throughout the year. You can start by donating books to organizations that accept used books, reading to your young children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and even sitting down with your preferred cup of coffee and reading your favorite book.
Let’s Get Caught Reading!
Next Week: Continuation
General Disclaimer: The writer has used her best efforts in preparation of this information. No representations or warranties for its contents, either expressed or implied, are offered. Neither the publisher nor the writer shall be liable in any way for readers’ efforts to apply, rely or utilize the information or recommendations presented herein as they may not be suitable for you or necessarily appropriate for every situation to which they may refer. This information is for educational purposes only. If you would like to contact Rev. Lester, write to her c/o P.O. Box 121, Brookfield, WI. 53008.
