Springfield High School Breaks Library Record as Reading Culture Thrives

Springfield High School has officially shattered its all-time library checkout record—and the reason is simple: students are reading again.

At the heart of this shift is a renewed focus on literacy and a commitment to Book Love, the reading movement popularized by Penny Kittle. Across campus, classrooms and hallways are being transformed into spaces where books are visible, accessible, and valued. Teachers are intentionally building time for daily independent reading, and students are discovering something powerful—books they actually want to read. Read heartfelt letters from students to reading in "Dear Reading: Students Find Their Voice in Literacy at Springfield High"

The impact has been unmistakable. Where phones once filled quiet moments, books are now taking their place. Students are more engaged, conversations about reading are happening naturally, and a culture of literacy is beginning to take hold in meaningful ways.

This work is part of Springfield High School’s broader instructional focus on increasing literacy across all content areas. The results are already clear: stronger readers, more engaged learners, and a school environment where reading is becoming contagious.

This milestone is also a reflection of the collective effort of staff across the building. We extend a huge thank you to our incredible team—especially our English Language Arts department and our librarian, Dani Schneider—for helping create a school culture where reading truly matters.

At Springfield High School, literacy isn’t just a goal—it’s becoming a shared experience.