Thanks to a new program, largely focusing on non-fiction, students are improving their reading and comprehension skills.

Reach for Reading, a program from National Geographic Learning, has announced a new series of new adoptions for the 2014-15 school year in 14 school districts across the country, according to a press release. Some of these districts are located in Arizona, Oregon, and Massachusetts.

The Reach for Reading program "exposes students to reading with content and imagery from National Geographic's vast library of multimedia and narratives from world-renowned explorers – leading to more engaging learning experiences," said the release.

According to the release, the program was designed "to instill the passion for reading in all content areas, inspiring students through authentic multi-cultural literature, amazing visuals and compelling topics that bring learning to life."

The program includes "a balance of print and digital resources, including the award-winning myNGconnect, to maximize learning and is flexible to meet the varying needs of every student," said the release.

"Since its launch less than two years ago, districts using the Reach for Reading program are already seeing positive results and real progress for students. For example, Logansport, Indiana, a Reach for Reading district, posted the highest English/Language Arts test score gains in its county – this is significant," said Vincent Grosso, senior vice president, National Geographic Learning. "Our digital and print products, including Reach for Reading, are designed to engage and motivate students to achieve their individual potential and goals. We look forward to growing with current users and partnering with additional school districts, as we work together to achieve a common goal – to improve reading and turn learners into thinkers."

Reach for Reading, the release said, was built around the Common Core State Standards, "which were implemented as a way to provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students across the country are expected to learn and were designed to be robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that young people need for success in college and careers."

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Article by Kassondra Granata, Education World Contributor