Why reading matters: Building a culture of literacy at Rushmore American School

As educators, we often talk about reading as a fundamental skill, but its importance extends far beyond simply being able to decode words on a page. Reading is the foundation upon which all learning is built. It unlocks knowledge, develops critical thinking, strengthens communication skills, and opens doors to future opportunities.

At Rushmore American School, creating a culture of reading has been one of our key priorities during our first year. As a founding school, we have had the unique opportunity to establish strong literacy habits from the very beginning, ensuring that reading is not seen as a standalone subject but as a skill that supports success across the entire curriculum.

The impact of this focus is already evident in our student outcomes.

Using the New Group Reading Test (NGRT), we have tracked reading progress throughout the academic year. From NGRT A, completed at the beginning of the year, to NGRT C, completed at the end of the year, our students achieved an average improvement of 11 standardised score points. This represents significant progress in a relatively short period of time and demonstrates the positive impact of high-quality teaching, targeted interventions, and a consistent focus on literacy.

This improvement is more than just a number.

Students who develop stronger reading skills are better equipped to access learning in mathematics, science, social studies, and all other subject areas. They are able to understand complex texts, follow instructions more effectively, conduct research independently, and articulate their ideas with greater confidence.

Reading also develops imagination, empathy, and curiosity. Through books, children can explore different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. They learn to think critically about the world around them and become more reflective learners.

One of the most encouraging aspects of our NGRT data is that progress has been seen across multiple year groups, demonstrating that when schools, teachers, students, and parents work together, significant gains can be achieved.

Of course, literacy development does not stop when the school day ends. Families play a vital role in fostering a love of reading. Something as simple as reading together for 15–20 minutes each day can have a profound impact on vocabulary development, comprehension skills, and long-term academic success.

As we reflect on our first year as a school, we are incredibly proud of what our students have achieved. An average gain of 11 NGRT points is evidence of their hard work, the dedication of our teachers, and the support of our families.

However, our journey does not end here. We will continue to invest in literacy, expand reading opportunities, and encourage every child to discover the joy and power of books.

Because when children become confident readers, they become confident learners and confident learners can achieve extraordinary things.