For the past five years, Greater Atlanta Christian School has welcomed students from Christian elementary and middle schools across the region to compete in the Great Readers Bowl, a unique and thoughtfully designed reading competition created to inspire both learning and character development. This year, seven middle schools were represented, forming twelve teams competing at the middle school level, along with six elementary schools who also participated in the competition.

Founded by GAC faculty members Bonnie Baker, Upper School Library Specialist, Allison Anderson, Lower School Library Specialist, and Rhonda Helms, Lower School Principal, the Great Readers Bowl was established as an alternative to traditional reading competitions. By hosting its own event, GAC is able to intentionally select books that best serve students academically and spiritually, while also fostering camaraderie among like-minded schools. Each title on the reading list is carefully chosen to reflect positive values and meaningful themes that shape both hearts and minds.

While the competition originally followed a traditional “buzz-in-first” format, organizers soon recognized that not every student thrives in that style of fast-paced response. In response, the Great Readers Bowl evolved to include additional rounds that highlight a variety of strengths. Teamwork Rounds encourage students to collaborate in answering questions together, while the Captain’s Round challenges teams to follow the leadership of their chosen captain. These distinctive elements set the Great Readers Bowl apart, ensuring that every student has an opportunity to contribute, build confidence, and experience success.

“My favorite moments are when I see a student who was nervous or a little timid going in but once they get into the competition they are buzzing in and answering questions and you can just see their confidence growing.” Baker shared, “That’s also when you see their teammates' faces and know that they are proud to be on that team.”

Preparation for the Great Readers Bowl begins months in advance, as teams read and study the selected books, becoming experts on a wide range of topics. From science and history to beloved novels and biographies, the reading list challenges students to think deeply and expand their knowledge. On competition day, participating schools gather at Greater Atlanta Christian School for an opening ceremony, multiple rounds of competition, and a celebratory awards presentation.

More than just a contest, the Great Readers Bowl continues to serve as a platform for students to grow, not only in knowledge, but in confidence, teamwork, and character. As always, this year’s event was marked by friendly competition, joyful learning, and the shared celebration of a love for reading.