• The Bluestem Award: Illinois' Grades 3-5 Readers' Choice Award

    The Bluestem Award is a student choice award four our state.  Every year there are 20 books on the list that appeal to middle grades. This year at Spring Brook, fourth and fifth grades are able to participate if they choose. If students want to vote in late February/March, they'll need to read/listen to at least four books to be eligible.  This award is super popular at Spring Brook and our generous PTA contributes by purchasing books for this program.  Dr. Hoyle Ross booktalks these titles and suggests these books throughout the school year.  Students drop fuzzies in the jar with the cover of the book they finished reading to help stay motivated.  Participating students vote and the overall state winner is announced in late March. Students who are really into the program and would like to participate in the Battle of the Bluestems read at least 8 books and form teams to compete in a Kahoot in the spring in the LMC.

    For a list of this year's titles, visit: https://aisled.org/bluestem/

    Thank you to the PTA for their generous support! 

    The Monarch Award: Illinois' K-3 Readers' Choice Award

    The Monarch Award is a state-wide program for grades K-3.  The butterfly logo is significant as the Monarch butterfly symbolizes the growth, change, and freedom that becoming a reader brings. The Monarch Award is designed to encourage children to read critically and become familiar with children's books, authors, and illustrators.  The list of 20 nominee titles contains at least three of each of the following types of children's books: picture books, easy readers, chapter books, and often includes non-fiction and poetry books as well. 

    At Spring Brook, grades K-2 have chosen to participate in this program.  Dr. Hoyle Ross, LMC Director, booktalks the 20 nominees and teachers read at least 10 of the titles. Participating students have the opportunity to vote for their favorite Monarch title in February. The winning book is announced in March.

    For the list of this year's titles and additional information about the Monarch Award, visit: https://aisled.org/monarch/