Dear Parents of HCPSS students,

Summer is almost here! In addition to fireworks, family time, and barbecues, I’m looking forward to tackling my summer reading list.

I’m proud that the Howard County Public School System and Howard County Library System are again partnering to present a fun and engaging summer reading experience for our community. I hope this letter encourages your child – and your whole family – to participate.

Here’s why:
There are games (and prizes!) for each age group, including an attractive reading journal for adults. Begin your summer reading adventure on June 1. The children and teens games celebrate reading (including graphic novels, comic books, and audiobooks) and activities.

Summer reading helps connect your family to the library this summer. That includes six celebrations, hundreds of free summer classes and activities for all ages, and STEAM classes for middle and high school students. HCLS has an amazing collection, and staff that love helping your child select a book they’ll love. Learn about it all at hclibrary.org/summer.

Just like a dessert with secret veggies in it, this fun is good for you! Reading all summer has been shown not just to eliminate slide in reading but also to help students advance their skills.

Get started! Every elementary school student will receive a gameboard at their school. Middle and high school students can pick up gameboards at their school media centers. Additional copies may be picked up at any Howard County Library System branch. I know that library staff are ready to answer questions and get you started!

New this year: When your elementary student finishes summer reading and submits a ticket to the library to receive their prize, please check the box authorizing the library to share their success with their school so we can continue to celebrate them when they return to school in the fall.

Happy reading!

Sincerely,
William J. Barnes
HCPSS Superintendent