Exciting changes in reading and writing instruction are happening in kindergarten through fifth grade classrooms in Chatham County this school year. Balanced Literacy is an opportunity for teachers and students to use high-interest, engaging books to practice the Georgia English Language Arts Standards of Excellence in reading and writing. We all know that practice makes for improvement. Research shows that the amount of time students are directly engaged in reading and writing dramatically affects academic success. The Balanced Literacy program assures that students get the maximum amount of time with eyes on the page and pen in hand.