Following a decline in reading scores among Utah eighth graders, with a drop of 4 points from 2022, FOX 13 News visited Lehi Junior High School to observe how students are utilizing new strategies to boost their literacy skills.
Brooklyn Wells, a ninth grader, shared how reading has helped her cognitive growth: “Reading a book challenges you to think critically, which definitely contributes to your development.”
In an effort to support student literacy, Lehi Junior High introduced a new writing center this year. Principal Matt King highlighted the initiative, noting that “students are being trained to assist their peers with writing, and we’ve already had nearly 300 students come in for help this year.”
Brooklyn Wells is one of the student tutors at the writing center, explaining how peer-to-peer tutoring can be more approachable for some students: “For some kids, it can be intimidating to ask for help from an adult, so a peer who understands where they’re coming from might be easier to relate to.”
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The school’s literacy program revolves around four key components: vocabulary, background knowledge, oral fluency, and writing. These focus areas aim to ensure that students are proficient readers who can build a strong foundation for future academic success.
“With today’s information overload, it’s crucial for students to develop skills that allow them to read and process authentic texts and respond appropriately,” said Principal King.
The school has been investing in literacy strategies for years, with teachers like Katherine Price, who runs a regular reading skills class. “We teach students to make connections, use context clues to understand unfamiliar vocabulary, and make inferences while reading,” she said.
For students like Brooklyn Wells, these approaches are making a tangible impact. “I wasn’t a big reader before, but since I’ve joined this class, I’ve discovered new books and perspectives, and I’ve really enjoyed learning more about writing,” Wells added.
The school’s efforts seem to be paying off as they continue to foster a culture of reading and writing that encourages both academic growth and personal development.
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