Gary Community School Corporation Celebrates National Beable Spring Power Up Success with Two Top Worldwide Student Champions

Recently, the Gary Community School Corporation (GCSC) proudly celebrated the outstanding achievements of its elementary scholars who participated in the nationwide Beable Spring Power Up Session, an innovative literacy initiative supported through the district’s School Improvement Grant (SIG). Participants were recognized at the May 14th school board meeting.

Beable, one of Gary Schools’ strategic SIG investments, was selected to help close literacy gaps across elementary schools by accelerating reading growth while making learning engaging, relevant, and future-focused. Through differentiated instruction, Beable strengthens vocabulary, reading comprehension, and academic confidence while exposing students to real-world career pathways. The platform’s interactive challenges, gamified rewards, and monthly competitions motivate students to boost their Lexile levels and build lasting literacy habits.

Competing against more than 100,000 students worldwide, Gary Community School Corporation earned an extraordinary distinction—securing two of the top three spots in the country for April’s Beable Spring Power Up results.

Gary Schools’ Top National Winners Include:

Kiera Lennese Givens, 5th Grade, Beveridge Elementary — 1st Place Worldwide

Maya Lynn Barnwell, 5th Grade, McCullough Academy — 3rd Place Worldwide

These remarkable accomplishments reflect not only the dedication of these scholars, but also the district’s broader commitment to literacy excellence, academic innovation, and equitable student success.

“This achievement is a testament to what happens when intentional investments, student determination, and engaging educational tools come together,” said Dr. Renita Craig, Director of Curriculum and Assessment. “Our students are proving they can compete and excel on a national stage, and we could not be prouder.”

While April’s competition results brought national recognition, the challenge continues through the month of May, giving all participating students one final opportunity to increase their Lexile growth and finish strong.

GCSC encourages families to continue fostering literacy at home by reading together, exploring educational opportunities, and participating in community literacy initiatives throughout the summer.

Summer Reading Opportunities Begin in June

To sustain literacy momentum beyond the school year, Gary Community School Corporation is partnering with the Gary Public Library to promote summer reading engagement for families across the city. Students who participate can enjoy rewards, treats, and continued learning opportunities.

Gary Public Library Summer Reading Kick-Off:

Saturday, June 6

12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Main Library

220 W. 5th Avenue, Gary, IN

The kick-off will also include participation from the Kennedy and Woodson branches. Families are encouraged to contact their local library branch for additional Summer Reading Program details.

Together, Gary Schools and community partners remain committed to building strong readers, expanding student horizons, and ensuring every child has the tools to thrive academically and beyond.