By: Jenray Nicole Ruiz
Imagine a classroom where, at any given moment, the students are immersed in the world of books. Each one quietly reads a story of their choice; the sounds of pencils scratching paper fade, and the hum of lesson plans and projects melt into a peaceful reading environment. This is the magic of the DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) program.
The DEAR program stands as one of the key initiatives of this year’s Lingua Palooza, a vibrant celebration of language and literacy. Developed to kindle a love for reading, it seeks not only to improve students’ literacy skills but also to foster greater focus and attentiveness.
In this program, students are given a designated time during the school day to drop whatever they’re doing and read. Yet, this simple act of reading comes with a delightful twist. With the resonant chime of the school bell, a unique signal is given—three consecutive rings that mark the exact moment when the enchantment of reading comes to life.
After five minutes, the three consecutive bells chime once more, this time signaling the end of the DEAR time. As the bell fades, students return to their lessons with minds refreshed and hearts uplifted, bringing with them a sense of calm and focus that comes from a brief, immersive escape into the world of books. The benefits of this program extend far beyond the classroom. It provides uninterrupted time necessary for students to engage deeply with a text, leading to greater fluency and understanding. Additionally, giving students space to unwind and connect with their emotions through the transformative power of literature.
Through this initiative, students are provided with a unique and invaluable opportunity to pause, reflect, and immerse themselves in the life-changing impact of reading—an experience that sharpens minds and nurtures emotional growth, helping students to develop both critical thinking and empathy.