Jesse Gilman McCown, 8th grader at Diller Odell Public Schools, and Jenna Woitalewicz, 9th grader at Meridian Public Schools, have earned a 4th place national ranking on a reading team called Battle of the Books. This is a reading incentive program for students in grades 5-8. The purpose of Battle of the Books is to promote literacy and foster a spirit of academic competition, good sportsmanship, and to encourage critical thinking (SNRP, 2020). Gallaudet University sponsors this competition both at the state and national level. Jesse and Jenna competed virtually May 17-18 for a 4th Place National Championship. Their love for reading has really paid off and will continue to benefit them throughout their academic careers. These student activities are supported by Southeast Nebraska Regional Programs for the Deaf or Hard of Hearing (SNRP).
Provided by: Lisa Richardson, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Educator