The system had retarded their progress. I am not a reading expert, even though I have taught the subject for several years. An analogy from the sports world would be that of a pitcher who gets the ball over the plate, but his delivery may cause serious physical ailments to himself over time. To allow such weakness to develop when it could be just as easily averted through proper coaching is not a wise course to follow. Such can be true of improper habits gained while in any academic subject.
School districts have a responsibility to offer each student an opportunity to have a full life.
One who is crippled by an inferior reading ability is being shortchanged. The best method of reading that I know of which teaches one the basic mechanics of reading by sounding out letters and words with little outside help is phonics. It can be easily taught to children at a very early age and, in my opinion, gives the best foundation for reading once the basics are mastered. I applaud Granite School District officials for their courage and effort to teach one method that will be of benefit to all students. Those who transfer from one school to the other will be able to pick up the reading program rather than be required to use an alternate method.