To make the overall goal more manageable, teachers on Team 6A decided to

divide it into four small increments and provide incentives that would entice

students to make their reading quotas. The first incentive was a "Breakfast

on Us" in October for those who read six books between Sept. 7 and Oct.

8.

Out of 110 students, 40 of them (or 36 percent) met the goal and were treated

to breakfast in the media center on Oct. 14. With only a month to complete

the first reading challenge, the teachers on Team 6A didn't expect that

they would be providing breakfast for so many students.

"We had no idea that many children would manage the first hurdle on

such a shortened schedule," said teacher Georgia Frisch. "We are

working hard to encourage the remainder of the team to buy into the program

and understand the importance of reading in their lives."

Frisch was so enthusiastic about the results the program has had on her

students that she has adapted her own version at home for her third grader

at Spring Hill. Like the students on her team at Fayette Middle, she has

challenged her son to read 25 books by the end of the school year and has

set up incentives to help him reach his goals.

"He is growing by leaps and bounds," said Frisch.

As for students at Fayette Middle, the next incentive is an ice cream social

for those who read 12 books by Dec. 16, followed by a popcorn and soda party

for those who read 19 books by March 18. For students who reach the overall

goal of 25 books by May 20, they will enjoy pizza and a movie for their accomplishment.