Theodore Mangi

"Reforming Reading Instruction" is the innovative and winning program developed by Mangi for students at McGee Middle School. The program is designed to empower students by giving them an active role in choosing their learning tools. Students will improve their own reading skills by selecting their own material from age and level-appropriate choices for assignments. According to Mangi, the concept has been studied by educators across the country to build towards a more effective model of teaching literacy and has been widely accepted. Funds from the grant will be used to purchase a greater variety of novels. Mangi, who lives in Meriden, hopes the program will help students feel invested, capable, and motivate them to connect with the novel of their choice.