Research has shown that classroom libraries - physical or virtual - benefit students in numerous ways. Read the research. According to educational researcher Richard Allington, students need more time to read and access to books they enjoy in order to get better at reading (A Guide to Reading Workshop in the Middle Grades, Calkins and Ehrenworth 2017). Ms. Gower (our media specialist) and others have been working hard to provide FREE access to virtual libraries so that students will be surrounded by books that inspire them while stuck at home.
As a guardian, you know much more about your child than anyone else. I value your partnership and look forward to working together to continue helping your child grow as a reader. Because each family has different expectations for what content is appropriate, I strongly encourage you to communicate with your child frequently about what books he or she is reading. You can use websites like Common Sense Media and Amazon in order to research more about the books. Likewise, if you choose to read the books with your child, it would open the door for important conversations about issues relevant to teens.
See below for a recommended reading list with high-interest novels and tips for helping students who say they don't like reading.