With the dismal report Wednesday that Austin and state test score averages were down this year from last, it's good to know that students are helping each other bridge the gap in reading skills.

Students at Ellis Middle School were guest storytellers this past Thursday for kindergarten and first graders.

The Ellis students chose books for the children to read to them. For some of the students, English is their second language, making the reading program a small step in removing that language barrier.

The gap between white and minority students in test scores also increased this year. Schools need to continually find ways to help students, who seem to fall behind, succeed in school and on state exams.

Programs like the one Thursday may play a crucial role in reaching that goal.