Reading Program

Pleasure reading, for many teens, is an activity that can be low on a list of things to do for fun. Even if they enjoyed reading as a child, by the time high school rolls around, many teens would rather do any of one hundred other things than pick up a book. And, unlike that in elementary school, the typical high school curriculum often does little to encourage reading 'just for fun'. As Bay School educators, we believe that it is important for teenagers to have the opportunity to read purely for pleasure as part of their high school experience, as it helps to encourage a habit that will continue throughout their lives. This is where Book Bridge comes in.

Book Bridge

Each Monday, every Bay School student spends half an hour in Book Bridge activities, which they may tailor to their individual preferences. Book Bridge has three objectives. Students are encouraged to:
• Get to know themselves as readers
• Learn about resources and tools that will help them find books they enjoy
• Use Book Bridge time to read a book of their own choosing

The program incorporates structured activities that help students learn both who they are as readers, and how to use the tools they have at their discretion. Thereafter, they may opt to join one or more friends or classmates to read and discuss a book together. If they wish, students may also ask a teacher or staff member to join their book group. Another alternative is for students to use the Book Bridge time to read independently, in which case they can opt into an SSR (Silent Sustained Reading) program.

Please contact Librarian, Rachel Shaw, at rshaw@bayschoolsf.org with any questions about this program.