"When my students write about their learning environment and the 10-minute reading period given at the beginning of each class school-wide, all communication barriers, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems, which ordinarily separate students, are removed. Students are transformed and commonalities become apparent. Young Adults are encouraged to express their opinions on articles selected daily in an unbiased setting among their peers regarding concepts related to science, technology and society.

As a teacher, observing the transformation of my students has been amazing. I no longer have to direct students daily to sit in pairs and read the paper to the sound of groans and moans. The students now fight to get the newspapers and continue to read even after the mandatory reading period has ended. Yes, I actually have to stop students from reading in order to cover the required chemistry curriculum. The science articles, which we have read in class, have led to enhanced understanding of concepts, which are not readily understood by teenagers.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Staff of USA TODAY for a quality product, which has enhanced the learning process for hundreds of students and also convinced this veteran teacher to adapt her instructional strategies."

Julie Gilbert
Science Teacher
Miami Senior High School