Accelerated Reader

What is Accelerated Reading?

Accelerated Reader (AR) is a proven literacy development tool that motivates K–12 readers, supports core instruction, and helps build literacy skills identified by the Science of Reading research. AR is a computer program designed to encourage and monitor the reading development of our students. They can check out books from our library, the public library, or their classroom teachers, and use Accelerated Reading to take quizzes about those books and earn points.

Accelerated Reading is an excellent way for students to be individually tested for their reading comprehension skills.

Points are accumulated throughout the year, and in May each year special achievements are recognized. Each class sets a goal and is rewarded when this goal is achieved.

The Quiz List

There are over 220,000 quizzes available in the Accelerated Reading database. Students engage in wide reading practice, while teachers gain actionable insights to guide instruction and monitor growth. You can perform a search of the database on the https://login.renaissance.com/12b78f5a-dbfb-4873-b7f5-01aded4657a6?state=1523daf8-7266-4999-848b-479f3476241b

If you would need additional information, please contact Mrs. Kristi Cook or Mrs. Taylor Strocher.

Who Uses It?

Accelerated Reading is used by our students in Grades 1-8. Kindergartners may use it at their teacher’s discretion.

Curriculum

This year will fly by fast, but the exponential value of working together will linger for a lifetime as we relish the experiences we have shared and, even more importantly, as our children grow up to model our example. Thank you Good Shepherd and 8^th grade parents!

“We have such a great group of parents,” a long-time friend said the other day as we compared notes on how our 8th grade fundraising efforts for Washington D.C. were going. As I hurried on, I couldn’t help but think about what she said and recognize its significance.

“My children have greatly benefited from their experiences at Good Shepherd — but so have I. Many friendships have developed while sharing a bumpy bus ride on a field trip, sitting in the bleachers cheering on our team, or staying up late decorating for a big event at school. I wouldn’t trade these experiences in for anything.

“And now that my oldest is in 8th grade, I’ve witnessed our parents coming together for this final stretch of our children’s junior high education. Parents coming together to work no matter how long or how late; parents donating time, talent and trades; parents showing their love of Christ by supporting Good Shepherd’s mission, our kids and also each other.

“Hebrews 13:15-16 says, ‘With Jesus’ help, let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to God by proclaiming the glory of His name. Don’t forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God.’

Lorri Ruckman

Parent

Thanks for everything you do. I always knew it was the best thing we would ever do for our kids sending them to a Lutheran school. I miss those days but the lessons live on in my children that are no longer children. Thanks for being such a blessing to so many. The lessons we teach our children reach farther and live longer than any of us can ever know.

Donna Baker

Parent

Good Shepherd Lutheran School has changed my son’s life. He was on a path of social hardship and constant academic struggles. This is our second year at Good Shepherd and he is on track academically. He has made friends and feels accepted by his peers. And the teachers and staff have shown my child so much love and acceptance, I will be eternally grateful. We are active Christians, but we are not of the Lutheran faith. I never have felt like I was looked down upon for not being a Lutheran, nor were my children treated any differently. I’m truly amazed at their sincere passion for Christ and their excellence in academics. Thank you Good Shepherd!

DeeAnn Billings

Parent

As parents of an eighth grader and sixth grader, who have attended Good Shepherd since preschool, our family has found that Good Shepherd Lutheran School provides a wonderful environment for our children to learn, grow and thrive. The school is committed to providing a quality Christian education for each student. Through the small class size, challenging academic program, and the commitment of its faculty and staff, we have no doubt that our children are being prepared to enter the even more challenging world of high school.

Eric and Suzie Robinson

Parents

I can’t say enough about this school and how much it means to all of us. Judy and Kathy are trusted members of our family that take such good care of our children, and the parents. Mr. Mayhew welcomes our children to school each day outside, rain or shine. He is available for questions, concerns, and always puts his students and teachers at the top of the list. The teachers are professionals that understand each child is unique and a blessing. They encourage independence and promote confidence. My 9 and 10 year old describe their teachers as, “helpful, intelligent, encouraging, fun and exciting.” My 14 year old describes her teachers as, “inspirational.”

a parent

For me, Good Shepherd (Lutheran School) served as a safe place. It provided me with a great work ethic, amazing friends, and most importantly, a solid understanding of God’s Word. It started me off with a good head on my shoulders, and a tight friend group that has kept me on the right track all throughout high school. Not only did we make lifelong friendships here, we made memories that will forever make us laugh and smile… I do not know where I would be or who I would be without the friends I made and the things I learned at Good Shepherd. For that, I am very thankful.

Ashleigh Niebruegge

Parent

I think the most important aspect of my education at Good Shepherd, beyond the healthy learning environment and quality education, is the role it has played in broadening my understanding of church history and what faith and worship can look like. That doesn’t sound overly impressive on the surface but as a fourth generation Southern Baptist things were very different in chapel services and sometimes in interpretations of scripture than what I was accustomed to, and those differences were often hard to struggle through especially as a twelve or thirteen year old, but as an adult I can tell you it was invaluable. Understanding the reformation (felt board Luther anyone?) and the whys of Lutheran theology has enabled me to have respect for our differences and understand just how deeply we are the same… I couldn’t have learned that lesson in any other way outside of experience and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been able to pass a bit of that wisdom on to folks who did not have the same opportunity as I did and who may not even understand the ‘whys’ of our shared faith in Jesus Christ. Its promoted a desire for harmony in my life with other believers and not a sense of ‘other’. I’m truly a better person for the education I received at Good Shepherd.

Ruth Smith Mills

Parent

Good Shepherd provided me with a strong Christian education and with teachers who really cared about my spiritual well-being. I have carried the lessons and values I learned there with me throughout my life. I value Good Shepherd so much that we will be sending our twin girls there in just a few years.

Pamela Cross Landwher

Parent

I have no doubt that attending GS, and continuing my education at MELHS and CUC, had the most positive impact on molding me into the person I am – Christian wife/mother/nurse. Their focus on what truly matter most in life- Christ, personal relationships, a moral compass, integrity– is something that can’t be taught in the classroom or on the field but can only be realized through experience. The personal care and Godly love the teachers/staff display is a unique blessing that should be cherished and not taken for granted. As the child of a teacher I’ve experienced first hand the hours, time, and attention the teachers pour into every day and every student. I’ve also been on the receiving end as a student which has left me with nothing but fond memories and high educational standards. Nothing makes me realize my appreciation of Good Shepherd as a school and church more than being a parent myself and having to choose a school for my child to attend.

Katie Petersen Hughes

Parent

I attended Good Shepherd Lutheran School from Preschool to 8th grade. My grandma would always pick me up from school and I remember telling her that I thought it was unfair that friends from other schools never had homework but I did. It wasn’t until after I graduated from Good Shepherd that I realized how great an impact this school had on my life. I was prepared for high school which led me to be well prepared for college. My faith in the Lord was also something I took with me after graduation. Looking back, I can see the foundation that was laid by Good Shepherd, not only for my education, but my faith as well.

Kristen Wrigley

Parent

Good Shepherd is where I made many godly friendships… It’s where I could talk with teachers about anything. It’s where those teachers gave me godly advice and encouragement. It’s where I was taught and held to standards that set me apart and where I was given opportunities to learn, read, and serve all at once. It’s where I learned a great deal of confidence... I am so thankful that my parents chose to send me to Good Shepherd.

Kara Frey

Parent

Good Shepherd has impacted my life since day one whether I realized it or not. Little did I know that this place would continue to help me even after I started high school and moved away for college. Growing up I could always count on finding my dad in the main office or my mom in the cafeteria or selling script. The halls of Good Shepherd were always familiar and somehow comforting to me. I made some of my fondest memories and I met some of my greatest friends here. Looking back on my experiences at Good Shepherd I know that they shaped my life for the better. My faith has been put to the test many times throughout my life. I have this place to thank for laying a solid foundation in me that has helped me to overcome my struggles and in turn grow tremendously. I know God is smiling down at the work that is being done at Good Shepherd. I am very proud to call this place home and forever be apart of the Good Shepherd family

Brooke Mayhew

Class of 2009

Good Shepherd has impacted my life immensely. Beginning in Preschool to 8th Grade, it set the Christian foundation for my life and has, in large part, made me the man I am today. I can still remember teachers, administrators, fellow classmates, and workers in the lunch room that have impacted my life in some way. I’m still good friends with many of them. I’ve never been at a place where everyone cares about your spiritual and educational growth so deeply. It was a true pleasure to be apart of Good Shepherd and I would overwhelming recommend anyone considering giving their children this amazing experience to do so!

Steve Mandeville

Class of 1997

Good Shepherd laid the moral and religious foundation for my entire life. Without the firm and empathetic love and dedication of Mr. Mayhew I would not have the faith in and knowledge of a God that loves me no matter what. What at the time seemed to be memorizing monotonous literature, following arbitrary rules of decorum and preparing for tedious academic tasks turned out to be cementing God’s never failing love and promises on my heart for eternity. Mr. Mayhew and the other amazing Christians immersing their lives into the futures of thousands of children who have come through GSLS deserve to know that their efforts ultimately have created a conscience in me that forever will feel and be guided by the presence of God. Along with the intangible benefits of a solid, Christian education were the friendships and memories of adolescent maturation that I cherish and look back upon fondly to this day.

Chris Simon

Class of 1999

My outstanding Christian education at Good Shepherd has helped mold me into the adult that I am today. I am the daughter of Christ, a wife, a mother to three amazing kids, and a business owner. My heart is filled with joys from memories of a childhood spent at this school, and that I am now sharing with my own children. God’s grace and joy is felt within the halls at Good Shepherd. I can’t imagine there being many more beautiful things to bless a child with than a Christian education at this amazing school.

Amanda Zika

Class of 1995

My Christian education at Good Shepherd really helped me learn the values of friendship and hard work that have helped me get further in life, especially the foundation on God’s Word has helped me see things in very different ways.

Logan Anson

Class of 2010

The oldest child always seems to pave the way for the younger siblings. However, each child is different and offers their own perspective of what their school means to them. My younger son and daughter focus on their friendships, relationship with their teachers, and recess. However, we realize they are learning so much more in a safe, nurturing environment. They both love their school and look forward to each year.

a parent

My oldest daughter is in eighth grade now and preparing for high school. We have had several conversations reflecting on her years at Good Shepherd. This has made us realize the impact the school has made on her life. She loves her school and will forever refer to Good Shepherd as “my school”. She has had the opportunity to learn more about technology than we could have every taught her. Her independence, studying habits, organization skills, commitment to explore her faith and responsibility continue to amaze us. She discovered a sport she loves in 5th grade thanks to the athletic programs beginning at an early age. Her true passion for art has continued to be fostered with projects and assignments that encourage creativity. Most importantly, the values we hold within our family have also been instilled at school.

a parent

Regardless of religious denomination, we have always felt we are part of a school family. Good Shepherd has provided an educational home that far exceeds meeting the needs of one particular faith. We are grateful to the teachers, staff, families, and friends that are committed to providing an exceptional educational experience. The investment we have made into our children’s education and school experience has never been questioned, they are receiving the best.

a parent

My family began its partnership with Good Shepherd Lutheran School in 2005. This partnership has faithfully grown and we currently have three children attending. Our story of choosing the right school is not a simple one. Not being from the Collinsville area, I had no plan past pre-school. A search for a small, faith based school began. We did several school visits, interviews, and listened to many parent referrals. I think we knew from the moment the phone calls and visits began Good Shepherd was where we felt most at home. We are not members of Good Shepherd church, in fact we are Catholic. Finding a school that practiced our faith was not a priority, however finding an environment that allowed our children to explore their faith was. Looking back several years later we definitely made the best decision for our family.

a parent