Commack UFSD Elementary

Summer Reading Program

Spring 2008

     Dear Parents, Guardians & Caregivers: 

Much has been written about the value of books.  Reading helps children to develop literacy skills, grow creatively, and learn about the world.  Reading helps children to acquire the vocabulary and critical thinking skills needed to meet both the New York State Learning Standards and for life. To assist you in encouraging your children to read, the teachers and librarians of the Commack School District have compiled a supplementary reading list.  Children also enjoy listening to books. If your child appears to be struggling with a book, offer to read it to him or her.  

The supplementary reading list identifies recommended authors by grade level.   We would like to share the following thoughts with you: 

•  Read to your child. When you share books, your child naturally learns to see books as friends. 

•  Be a reader yourself.  Your child should see you read daily. 

•  Encourage your child to join a summer reading program.  Both the Commack Public Library and the Commack Branch of the Smithtown Library conduct summer programs.  The pride of owning a library card encourages children to read.

• Provide books that your child will enjoy.  When you visit the library, your child will discover the adventure of exploring the library’s vast resources.

• Encourage your child to read for pleasure.  Just 15 minutes of reading each day will help your child keep reading skills sharp.

• Read together as a family.  Try to set aside some time when the family reads together.  You might share one story or read different books. 

Through books, we learn about other families, cultures, and value systems.  Books expand our lives, our thoughts, and our experiences.  We hope the reading list helps your child enjoy many hours of reading pleasure this summer.

Sincerely, 

Adrienne Robb-Fund, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education