Chestnut Log Middle School is building stronger readers, one story at a time. The English Language Arts Department and the CLMS Media Center are behind the initiative, working together to create shared reading experiences across the school.

Language Arts classes now use class sets of contemporary titles so students can read the same story at the same time.

Seventh-grade ELA teacher Tialena Elliott says shared experiences matter.

"When students see themselves and their experiences reflected in the texts they are reading, they feel seen and valued," she said. "Connecting with students in this way opens the door to creating a unique connection between students and the world around them by helping them recognize themselves in others while also gaining insight into experiences different from their own."

Guided reading and structured discussion give students room to engage and explore the text from different angles. That structure, she says, helps them take on new genres with confidence.

Outside the classroom, the Media Center is supporting the same effort. Its audiobook live streams, virtual author visits, and "First Chapter Fridays" give students regular access to new books and new formats.

CLMS Media Clerk Makayla Tolbert built these programs with reluctant readers in mind.

"Many of our students are auditory learners and are often hesitant to explore written works. The goal of our First Chapter Friday initiative is to bridge that gap by introducing students to non-academic reading through a familiar format and encouraging them to continue their own individual literary endeavors," she said. "This initiative also opens their eyes to the variety of stories that books can hold."