2007 Note to Parents about the Summer Reading Program

A note from the MHS/MMS English/Language Arts Department:

Dear Parents

One of our school’s goals is to make our students better readers. This is reflected in our learning standards, our School Improvement Plan, and by our implementation of our required Summer Reading Program.

Increased reading has been linked to higher achievement in all subject areas. Research has shown that parents who model and encourage reading and have reading materials abundantly available in the home assist their secondary students in developing higher reading levels. Whether reading is completed for knowledge or for pleasure is not important.

The books listed in this letter are available in the Marathon library, local bookstores, and on-line (www.bn.com & www.amazon.com) so that they will be available to you and your child all summer long. Recommendations have come from selection guides, faculty members, parents, and students themselves. It is our hope that while your teens enjoy their summer activities, reading will be one of them.

During the first week back to school, students will participate in activities relevant to their summer reading including an essay test, comprising 10% of their grade for the first quarter. As these activities will affect their grade in reading class (for middle school students) or English class (for high school students), it is imperative that students do read from the list during summer break.

We count on your efforts to communicate the higher standards called for in our state and community. Your example, encouragement, and support of your child’s reading will go a long way toward helping us meet the student learning goals that we all share.

Summer gives you more time to help your child develop a love for books and reading. The staff of Marathon Middle/High School invites you to join your child in choosing readings from those listed in this letter. Thank you for your support and encouragement.

Students enrolled in regular reading or English choose ONE book from the appropriate grade level list; students enrolled in ADVANCED reading or HONORS English choose TWO books from the appropriate grade level list.

DE and Advanced Placement students have separate lists. They are to see either Mr. Arena for Dual Enrollment or Mr. Schubert for A.P. Literature summer reading assignments.

Sincerely

MHS/MMS English/Language Arts Department