Teacher Hannel Jackson hopes that every student at Castle Bruce Primary School in Dominica, an island in the Eastern Caribbean, will discover the pleasure of reading. She did, however, notice something troubling: the school library was always crowded with girls reading, but not with boys because boys preferred to play outside. With 15 years’ experience as a kindergarten teacher and now serving as the school’s remedial teacher, Hannel understands that children need physical activity, but she also knows the value of reading for learning and imagination.
She wanted to understand why the boys were not drawn to the library before taking any action. She was surprised by their response, which read, “Miss, the books in the library are for girls!” They are about dolls and princesses.” Hannel discovered through additional conversations that boys perceived the available literature and the layout of the reading areas as exclusively for girls. Her solution was to create The Boys’ Reading Corner—but she didn’t do it on her own.
The boys themselves designed the dedicated space, selected books that reflected their interests, and incorporated games and hands-on activities to make reading fun and interactive.
She aimed to cater to their needs and have them feel a sense of ownership.
One boy commented, “The literacy room is exciting and fun.” I will visit it often.”
Another added, “We feel more interested in books in the literacy room.” When I first saw it, I was amazed.”
Girls now view boys as reading peers as a result of the new space’s expansion of the school’s reading culture. Reading has become exciting for everyone thanks to the new enthusiasm and resources. fostering teacher innovation and leadership The research project that led to Hannel’s initiative was funded by GPE and sponsored by the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Programme for Educational Advancement and Relevant Learning (PEARL). The Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, and Saint Lucia are receiving $10 million in regional support. Lucia, and St. to increase access to and quality of basic education in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Thanks to this funding, teachers like Hannel have participated in leadership training that equips them to respond to the diverse learning needs and interests of their students.
After completing the training, Hannel was given money to set up a dynamic, welcoming environment that would encourage boys to love reading. The initiative has already led to noticeable improvements in boys’ attitudes toward reading and their reading habits. This accomplishment demonstrates the efficacy of individualized interventions to enhance literacy and inclusion. Additionally, “Reading will take you everywhere!” is emblazoned in bright, bold letters on the wall of The Boys’ Reading Corner to serve as a reminder to each child. Hannel is eager to see where her students will take this new interest in reading.
