This summer, Academy classroom teachers from the Early School through grade 5 took time from their summer vacations to learn F.A.S.T. reading techniques.

F.A.S.T. is a synthesis of whole language and phonetic instructional techniques that is designed to help students break the phonetic code while involving them in meaningful reading and writing from the first day of the program. The program is unique and especially effective because it teaches students key phonetic concepts and then immediately reinforces those concepts with practice in phonetically controlled reading materials that are age and interest appropriate. It awakens students to the wonder, excitement and joy of reading. It is founded in scientific brain research and the best practices of reading instruction.

Last winter, Wendy Demartini, Marsha Thomas and Denise Phelps participated in the four-day training session led by Steve Tattum, founder of F.A.S.T. They immediately applied these techniques in a two-pronged manner. Wendy Demartini used the program in her fourth grade classroom and Denise Phelps used this approach with individual students and small groups of children. “In all situations, the impact was immediate and amazing,” says Denise. “It complements any existing Grosse Pointe Academy program and helps students across the learning spectrum. Children who are already good readers became better readers as they increased their speed and comprehension.”

F.A.S.T. techniques are unique because they can be implemented on an individual level and in the classroom. Both Wendy and Denise worked intensely this summer with Steve Tattum to achieve a higher level of certification that will allow them to support The Grosse Pointe Academy’s trained faculty and their students. The Academy was a leader for regional schools in July when it hosted two training sessions for teachers. Several other schools in the area are introducing F.A.S.T. techniques into their programs, including Detroit Country Day School, Star of the Sea and the Grosse Pointe Public School System.

The techniques’ successes are highlighted by two GPA students, Derek and Jared Demkowicz. Both were doing well in their classes but were slow readers who needed to improve their comprehension and speed. After two weeks, Derek was able to learn many techniques to boost his confidence in reading.Jared had similar results and more than doubled his reading speed while increasing his understanding of text.

“What we found was that all kids benefit from the F.A.S.T. reading program,” said their mother, Connie.“We are extremely excited that the Academy has implemented techniques that will benefit every type of reader.”

Sally Bollenbacher, mother of Richard  second grader Garrett, adds the following anecdote:  “When we got in the car Garrett said, ‘That was so fun. Can I do it again? I can’t believe that I thought it was going to be a disaster. It was like heaven.’”