Independent reading is central to RU, as it builds vocabulary—the strongest predictor of academic achievement and success on college entrance exams. Students read daily for 30–60 minutes, progressing from “learning to read” to “reading to learn,” and are encouraged to enjoy both fiction and nonfiction selections. Each quarter, students select books from the RU list according to their grade level, with opportunities for choice and flexibility. By the end of ninth grade, every APA student will have independently read over 130 books through Reading University, preparing them not only for academic excellence but also for a lifetime of curiosity, critical thinking, and enjoyment of great literature.