Each quarter, a detailed report of each student's progress is created. Teachers can access all the information from their classroom computers. Student's records are kept for two or three years. This requires them to read new books, increases their comprehension and provides them with immediate feedback about their accuracy. Reading scores seem to increase and interest in selecting books has improved.
Students recommend titles to each other and have a chance to discuss plots or events in class.
Mt. Zion Jr. High and Mt. Zion High School recently on a tour of Illinois Schools. He spoke of his legislative responsibilities to the Jr. High classes of Mrs. Gadberry and Mr. Davis. Mr. Phelps has written Country Western songs and has performed in Nashville. He is a member of the Gospel group the Phelps Brothers. Phelps ran for the seat vacated by Glen Poshard when he ran for governor.