Dear Parents and Students:

As the year draws to a close and our minds drift to summer, the English department at the Middle School would like to remind everyone of the value of reading.  Reading opens doors to new worlds, encourages us to  reflect on our own lives and values, imparts knowledge, and sometimes just makes us laugh.  More importantly, it is a skill we use throughout our lives.

As in the past, all students entering grades 6-8 will be required to read at least two books over the summer months.  A list of books recommended by the English department will be available online at the Middle School website as well as the Ballston Spa Public Library  website.  Additionally, hard copies of the list will also be available at the Middle School guidance office and the Ballston Spa Public Library by July 1.    Students are not required to choose books from the list.  It is provided as a resource.  Students may choose any books to read; however, books in comic format are not acceptable for this assignment.  We ask that parents and children discuss the titles in order to select books that are appropriate—both academically and personally.

Attached are fiction and non-fiction graphic organizers, which are essential for your child to complete for the two books he/she reads.  Upon returning to school, the graphic organizers will be collected, and students will use them to complete a task based on their summer reading. The assignment will be assessed and incorporated into students’ grades for the first marking period.  Additional graphic organizers will be available in the guidance office and on the middle school website.

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Paley, the English department instructional teacher leader, at 884-7200, extension 4868 or email apaley@bscsd.org  Thank you in advance for your cooperation and support.  Have an enjoyable summer.

 Sincerely,

 Ballston Spa Middle School English Department