As a reading motivation platform, we’ve learned through data that competition, goal setting, and incentives and recognition motivate students to read more. With the Reading Culture Awards, we bring that same energy and evidence-based strategies to our school communities. The Reading Culture Awards are our way of celebrating your hard work — and helping you fuel even more momentum along the way.

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The 2026-2027 Beanstack Reading Culture Awards

Back for a third year, we’re once again recognizing and rewarding schools for increasing student engagement with the Reading Culture Award program. This year, we’re bringing Benny on board and upping the ante to inspire you to meet milestones sooner in the school year. 

 

Here’s how your school can earn recognition this year:

  • New! Spark status: 10% student participation. You’ve sparked something special — your reading culture is on the rise!
  • Igniter status: 25% participation. You’ve lit a fire. Each school that reaches this milestone receives a Benny the Bean plushy to celebrate!
  • Pathfinder status: 50% participation. Your school is well on its way to building a strong reading culture. You’re almost there!
  • Trailblazer status: 75% participation. You’ve created a true culture of reading! Each Trailblazer receives a $25 gift card to celebrate reading at their school and is added to our list of Trailblazing schools.

Something Super on the Horizon 

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No… It’s something else! Stay tuned, this fall we’ll be announcing a new, special edition prize that you won’t want to miss. Keep an eye on our socials and newsletter for the big reveal.

 

The positive benefits of reading are clear, and our data backs it up. Schools that set community reading goals log 105% more minutes than those that don’t. Whether you focus on improving standardized test scores, building independent reading habits, or just making reading more fun, the Beanstack Reading Culture Awards help your whole community read all year long. 

Ready to ignite a love for reading at your school? Contact Beanstack today to see how we can help nurture a vibrant reading culture in your community.

Written by

The Beanstack Team

The Beanstack Team is made up of readers, educators, librarians, parents, and advocates who believe in the power of reading to build empathy, connection, and joyful communities. Together, they create resources and experiences that help readers of all ages discover stories that reflect and inspire them.

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