Student Shatters Reading Record
Richmond Times - Dispatch
Jun 30, 2009
James Garcia-Otero loves to read books. In fact, the rising sixth- grader at Colonial Heights Middle School recently set a record in the Colonial Heights Accelerated Reader program. James read about 155 books and passed each ensuing quiz to earn 1,070.3 points by the end of the school year, far surpassing the previous citywide record of 833 points, according to Tussing Elementary librarian Nancy Turner.
One of James' goals at the beginning of the school year was crossing the 1,000-point threshold.
"I am very proud of James for working hard and reaching his goal," said his mother, Singli Garcia-Otero. "He is surprised and pleased by all the attention."
His accomplishment captured the notice of Superintendent Joseph O. Cox Jr., who sent a congratulatory letter to James last month.
"We are proud to have such a dedicated reader in our school system," the superintendent wrote.
The Accelerated Reader program is designed to test an individual's reading comprehension. It's a software assessment program widely used across the country.
After finishing the book, the student is quizzed and accumulates points based on the number of correct answers.
James, who one day wants to be a patent attorney, lists Christopher Paolini's 600- plus page book "Eldest" as the most difficult book he read during the school year.
His favorite: "The Battle of the Labyrinth" by Rick Riordan.
Despite being a prolific reader, James is a typical 11-year-old who swims and plays soccer and basketball. He's also willing to face anyone in a game of chess.
Even though he's out of school, James plans to continue reading throughout the summer, targeting such books as Riordan's "The Last Olympian" and "Bridge to Terabithia," by Katherine Paterson.
James said he doesn't have a favorite author and admits that science is his favorite subject. However, reading remains an enjoyable activity.
He said he's an avid fan of reading because "I like how the books take me away."
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