Students and staff at William M. Raines High School engaged in a fun-filled, motivational evening on January 26. Principal Mrs. Nongongama Majova-Seane, Literacy Coach Jennifer Meyer, Reading Coaches Ingrid Pitts and Lona Johnson, and many other faculty and staff members hosted a “Write-A-Thon” lock-in for 10th grade students. The students were given the opportunity to engage in fun activities that were academically oriented and geared towards writing skills that would hone their writing for the FCAT Writes+ test. They were led in activities such as a timed FCAT Writing simulation, games (including one modeled after “Deal or No Deal”), computer activities, and other activities focused on increasing voice and word choice.

Local dignitaries from the community and school board were featured kick-off speakers. Students began arriving at the Media Center before 7:00 PM and remained until 7:00 AM the next morning. Participants were treated to a bar-b-que, snacks, breakfast, music, entertainment, and prizes for their achievements throughout the night. Teachers and staff spent many long hours planning and preparing the event and would spend more hours during the evening. The prizes and the social interactions between the students and staff members were motivating for all attendees.

Mrs. Majova, along with two of her literacy coaches, began this tradition while at a previously assigned middle school. Both years of the event produced raised writing scores and student enthusiasm. In exit surveys, students indicated that the “Write-A-Thon” was the major reason for success on their writing tests. Students and all stakeholders at Raines High School eagerly anticipate similar results this year.