The AR program at Red was implemented by former librarian Michelle Smith many years ago. As parents, we have seen firsthand how the program has positively affected our children. The AR program teaches reading comprehension which is essential for students through college and an essential workplace skill. AR pushes kids to read higher level books instead of taking the “easy road.” Once they’ve mastered a grade level, they must increase their reading level. The program has proven track records for kids of all abilities. When you ask teachers about the program, they overwhelmingly support it. When done correctly and supported by the librarian, AR is a fantastic educational tool. We are not naïve and understand it may not be the best fit for every child; however, no program is.

The proposed Biblinosium program does not teach reading comprehension skills, relies on kids being active in online social environments and dramatically increases teacher and parent oversight. Writing book reviews and reading peer reviews are great skills; however, unless every book is read by the parent or teacher, there is no way to know if the review is correct. Furthermore, since the reviews can be done at home, there’s no way to know if the review is written by a child or a parent. Sadly, cheating is something teachers still deal with today.

Biblinosium would be a great supplement to AR, much like a good book club. It should not be a replacement.

Please keep AR at Red.