Francine Swickheimer

Independent reading has long been a staple of literacy instruction. Whether it is called DEAR (Drop Everything and Read), Sustained Silent Reading (SSR), or independent reading, many classrooms dedicate time each day for students to engage with text. In a recent article, I explored the idea that independent reading should be viewed as more than a quiet classroom routine. When used intentionally, it becomes an opportunity not only for students to practice reading but also for teachers to learn...

DEAR time, or “Drop Everything and Read,” has been a familiar part of many literacy blocks for years. The idea behind it is sound: students need time during the school day to read independently. The question is not whether students should read independently. They absolutely should. The question is whether simply providing time to read is enough to improve reading achievement. Research offers mixed answers. Some studies point to benefits related to reading volume, motivation, and long-term...

After a busy school year, summer offers teachers a chance to breathe, reflect, and prepare intentionally for a stronger literacy year ahead. Instead of trying to do everything at once in August, teachers can use the summer to reset, simplify, and think ahead with purpose. Even a small amount of preparation can make the first weeks of school feel calmer, clearer, and more focused. Research suggests that students can lose academic gains over the summer, especially when access to learning...