The goal is to provide students with a complete set of SSYRA grades 3–5 books, Orange Blossom Award nonfiction books, and matching brag tags to encourage independent reading. These resources will give students the power of choice by providing access to high-interest titles across a variety of genres and topics while strengthening literacy skills, increasing reading motivation, and fostering a lifelong love of reading.
Throughout the school year, students will have access to the current SSYRA book set and Orange Blossom nonfiction collection. They will be encouraged to read these high-interest books independently and complete an Accelerated Reader quiz to demonstrate comprehension. After successfully passing a quiz, each reader will earn a brag tag featuring the book’s title. These brag tags will provide recognition for their accomplishments while motivating them to continue reading and exploring a variety of genres and topics.
Students who read three or more SSYRA books and successfully pass the Accelerated Reader quizzes will have the opportunity to cast their vote for their favorite book in Florida’s statewide SSYRA vote using voting machines, allowing them to experience the excitement of having their voice count in a statewide reading program.
*Encourages reading for enjoyment and fosters a lifelong love of reading.
*Improves reading comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency.
*Exposes readers to diverse genres, authors, cultures, and topics.
*Supports Florida literacy standards through meaningful independent reading experiences.
*Promotes nonfiction reading and helps readers explore informational text.
*Increases motivation through the brag tag recognition system, which celebrates reading achievements and encourages goal setting.
*Builds confidence and a sense of accomplishment as successful readers.
*Provides opportunities to participate in a statewide reading initiative and experience an authentic voting process.
Funding will be used to purchase a complete set of the current 26-27 Sunshine State Young Readers Award (SSYRA) Grades 3-5 books, a complete set of Orange Blossom Award nonfiction books, and matching brag tags for each title from both SSYRA and Orange Blossom books.
The books will provide students with access to high-quality, engaging literature and nonfiction texts that support literacy development and independent reading goals. The brag tags will serve as a motivational tool and reward system for students who successfully read books and pass corresponding Accelerated Reader quizzes. These materials will be used by current and future students, extending the impact of the grant beyond a single school year.
