Johns Hopkins University originally developed the Success for All program, and it was first introduced to the inner-city schools in Baltimore, Maryland to improve the reading skills of students in the elementary grades. Research has shown that there is a high correlation between the failure to learn to read and the high dropout rate; thus, preventive measures must be started at an early age to ensure that students stay in school. The Success for All reading program is based on a 90-minute daily reading class that starts at the kindergarten level, and that includes an emphasis on writing, vocabulary, and listening comprehension. The program has been highly effective at Hampstead School, benefitting special-needs, mainstream, international, ESL (English second language), and advanced students. Parents and teachers have observed that early reading competency leads to marked improvement in student self-esteem and behaviour.
© English Montreal School Board, 2022
