Formerly named the Read to Succeed program, Read to Exceed began in 1993 when Joe Zemke, then Amdahl Corporation president and CEO, brought together athletic organizations, academic institutions, and business to promote reading. "When leaders from business, sports, education and the media share a goal and combine their resources, success cannot be far away," commented Anna Eshoo, U.S. Congresswoman. Her words proved prophetic in 1997, as the program received the President's Service Award, the highest honor given by a U.S. President for volunteer service.

Prospect High School joined the program in 1994. Students participating in the program find it an excellent way to improve their reading skills and enrich their literary backgrounds. At Prospect the program has three award levels: silver, gold, and platinum. Students may elect to read every summer during their high school experience and can achieve all three awards.

Participating students read ten books from specified lists and write one of four responses for each work. Students turn these writings and their program form in a folder to their English teacher in the fall. A committee headed by the English department chairman reads these writings. Upon acceptance, student achievement is noted on the student's transcript. This notation is advantageous for college admissions. In addition, students are honored at the Grand Awards Ceremony in the spring.