Dear students and parents,

As we approach the end of another academic year, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to our summer reading program. Our goal is to promote the joy of reading among ALL students and encourage them to continue to read over the summer break.

Why is summer reading important? Research has repeatedly shown that children lose some of their hard-earned knowledge and reasoning over the summer while not in school. Research has also shown that reading over summer is a powerful means to slow or stop that loss. By participating in our summer reading program, students can maintain and even enhance their reading skills, which will give them an advantage when they return to school in the fall.

Reading also has numerous benefits beyond academic achievement. It promotes empathy, enhances vocabulary, improves writing skills, and stimulates the imagination. These skills are essential for success in all areas of life, and reading is a great way to develop them.

Community High School District 218 is encouraging students to use summer reading as an opportunity to engage in literacy and take ownership of their own learning. Students have access to a wide range of popular books at their local libraries, and we have also provided a list of recommended books for students to choose from. By providing students with choice and access to engaging literature, they will develop a lifelong love of reading. 

Thank you for supporting our efforts to promote literacy and encourage reading among our students. We look forward to seeing the benefits of this program when we return to school in the fall; the CHSD 218 Summer Reading Program strives to provide the opportunity to experience great books to all of our students.

Thank you,

The English Department of Community High School District 218

Ronell Whitaker - English & LRC Curriculum Director

Community High School District 218 website