Getting started with Beanstack is about more than just implementing a reading platform; it’s about creating a schoolwide culture of reading that inspires students, engages teachers, and brings school communities together.
In a few short weeks, Ventura Elementary School in Orlando, Florida, went from a total of nine minutes logged in Beanstack to achieving Reading Culture Trailblazer status. Plus, they snagged the ninth spot on the Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) leaderboard—a district of over 300 schools!
By uniting the school with a community goal, fostering friendly competition, and providing rewards and recognition, media specialist Taryn Kalsch sparked a culture shift at her school and created genuine excitement for books and reading.
Three Steps to Kickstart Your Reading Culture
Want to follow in her footsteps? Start with Beanstack’s Reading Motivation Playbook:
1. Set a collective goal for the district, school, or class
2. Use friendly competition to achieve that goal
3. Provide recognition and incentives along the way
Step 1: Set a Clear, Collective Goal
The first step in any successful reading initiative is setting a goal that gets everyone on board. Ventura Elementary aimed high, challenging students and staff to log 225,000 minutes before winter break. This goal didn’t just provide direction, it built excitement and gave students a reason to keep reading.
When a school sets a clear, measurable goal—whether it’s minutes, books completed, or reading streaks—it creates a shared milestone that the whole community can get excited about working together to reach.
Step 2: Drive Engagement Through Friendly Competition
A little competition can go a long way in getting students excited about reading. Ventura Elementary tapped into this by sharing weekly leaderboard updates, showing students which grades led the charge. Suddenly, reading wasn’t just an individual activity; it was a team effort that everyone could contribute to!
“The students and staff are watching Ventura climb the ranks [in Beanstack], and it is driving them to not only log, but to read for fun!” shared media specialist Taryn Kalsch.
For schools just starting out, friendly competition can turn reading into an exciting challenge rather than just another assignment.
Step 3: Provide Recognition and Incentives
People of all ages love to be recognized for their efforts, and students are no different. Ventura Elementary made reading feel rewarding by celebrating achievements big and small. Teachers received fun prizes like goodie bags and extra classroom supplies to encourage participation. At the same time, students worked toward an exciting (but mysterious) reward—a surprise Polar Express reading and viewing party.
Rewards don’t have to be elaborate to be effective. A simple shout-out in morning announcements, digital badges, or a classroom celebration can make all the difference in keeping students engaged.
Bonus Points for Timely Training and Communication
Taryn collaborated closely with the school and district admin to bring energy and intention to staff training and community outreach. Together, they led a comprehensive training session on Beanstack. Just hours later, newly trained staff put their learning into action by introducing families to Beanstack at a school open house. In the following days, they visited classrooms to lead engaging storytimes and teach students how to log their reading minutes. These well-timed efforts set the scene for her school’s success.
Big Results and Lasting Impact
Ventura Elementary’s strategic approach made a lasting impact. In just three months, they achieved 80% student participation in Beanstack, earning Reading Culture Trailblazer status. More importantly, they built a reading culture that continues to thrive.
The best part? Any school can replicate this success! By setting goals, using friendly competition, and recognizing achievements, you can turn reading into a shared activity that students, teachers, and families are excited to participate in.
Ready to get started? Your school’s reading journey begins today!