Nan Bradley

Bradley's "Shark Star Readers" project, named after the school's shark mascot, is an accelerated reading program designed to transform able K-5 readers into avid readers. Based on research that indicates the average elementary student spends less than 10 minutes a day reading, the project has students choose books from the Shark Book Library, read them thoroughly, and take a series of computer tests gauging retention and understanding. High scores earn students the Shark Star Cap, to which stars and pins can be added after more high scores are achieved. The project, which can be modified to serve students with special needs, also reinforces learning in core-subject areas.