PHOTO BY: Tyanna Guzman
Reading classes are mandatory for students who have not passed the FCAT Reading, or for those new to the state who are preparing to take the assessment for the first time. The FCAT is required to graduate.
Intensive Reading teacher Geoffrey Kessler responded to the fact that many students do not want to take a reading class, and struggle to find a way out. According to Kessler, a student can opt to take the SAT/ACT. With a score of 1430 on the verbal section of the SAT, or a score of 19 on the ACT, a student can potentially be transferred into a different elective. However, the student must finish out that a full semester in reading and still take the FCAT at the end of the year.
This opportunity is given to students in grades 10, 11, and 12. Kessler organizes peer tutoring for students preparing to take the SAT/ACT. Kessler encourages students to take these tests, as they deserve to be given this option.
But what if students cannot pass these tests? Was the effort for nothing? “I wouldn’t say it was for nothing,” Kessler said. “Even if you don’t pass the SAT/ACT, you would still benefit for two great reasons. One, it’ll help prepare you somewhat for college. And two, you’ll get to have the experiences.”
New students from out of state or country are often put into reading classes despite being advanced. Jarrod Dube from Calgory, Alberta, Canada said that he is advanced and was put into a reading class.
In Canada, Dube said he took seven tests that were statewide. These tests were called the PATs (Provincial Achievement Test), and according to Dube, he made the perfect score list.
Dube has mixed feelings about being put into a reading class. While he would rather have his choice of another elective, he believes that the reading class will help prepare him for the FCAT, even though he is confident that he could pass without it.