Suggestions for Starting a Just Read Program

First, believe in the power of reading for its own sake.

"But each time a child opens a book, he pushes open the gate that separates him from Elsewhere. It gives him choices. It gives him freedom. Those are magnificent, wonderfully unsafe things.'
~ Lois Lowry

Collaborate and Create a Plan

Approach some like minded educators from various corners of your school community and share the basics of the Just Read program.  Invite those interested to meet with you to define how Just Read might work at your school.  Let them put feelers out among their colleaguesTogether create a proposal for your administration.  Consider how you will brand Just Read for your particular school.  You will have created your school's Just Read Charter Team.

Grab Teacher Interest

Keeping Just Read a voluntary program is essential for the success of the program.  Start with a small pilot group (your charter team maybe?) and encourage curiosity.  Teachers are understandably overwhelmed with all the current demands and expectations, and if  you add Just Read to their plates, they will just throw it out with the trash.  Instead make it a palatable possibility they could choose.  Teachers first need to know that they the administration approves of the program and that they will not be marked down if an administrator observes their class during Just Read time.  Teachers also enjoy the flexibility of choosing their own Just Read Time.   To keep them accountable for this time, you will ask them to make a commitment by signing a contract indicating their Just Read Time.   Be sure to recognize and celebrate Just Read Teachers. 

Get Administration Approval

Sounds simple, but many administrators are feeling the tremendous stress of test scores and need a great deal of reassurance that this program will improve your school's academic performance.   When creating your proposal be sure to include specific research support and any endorsements you can find.  Be sure to be well prepared with a very specific plan and evidence of collaboration.  These are very busy stressed people, so make your time brief, positive, and hassle free.  Here is a sample proposal, but be sure to make it specific for your school.
https://www.smore.com/app/pages/preview/9txyd

A Plan of Action

  1. Prepare
  2. Create interest
  3. Information Meeting
  4. Kick Off Party.
  5. Holiday Party
  6. Encouragement during the year.
  7. End of the year Party
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