Students at the Kermit Nickerson School in Swanville love to read. They
participate in “Pop Open A Book”, a reading incentive
program developed by literacy teacher Mary Kivel and supported by an
MBNA grant.
When students read books and report on them, they receive popcorn
stickers. Based on meeting the standards set for each grade level,
those readers who have attained the goal earn a popcorn party for their
entire class. All students celebrate the successful reader’s
achievement while snacking on hot buttered popcorn, thus the title of
the program, “Pop Open A Book”. When students read even
more books, they are given books as prizes.
Each month at school-wide assemblies, Mrs. Kivel puts on her
“Reading Wizard” hat and cape and, with her magic reading
wand, passes out “Pop Open A Book” pins to students who
have earned free books during the month. Additional incentives include
an extra recess and prizes of tee shirts, which the Nickerson PTG
donated, adding further motivation for students to continue reading.
Nickerson School students, with the support of their parents and
teachers, will continue to “Pop Open A Book” through the
end of this school year.
"Reading Wizard" Mary Kivel and all the Nickerson School
students who have earned book prizes this year during their "Pop Open A
Book" reading incentive program.
Students winning a "Pop Open A Book" tee shirt from left: Garrett
Sylvia, Amanda Small, Sarah Howie, Jennifer Saucier, and Danielle
Wilson. Missing from the picture is Sydney Young.
