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Summer Reading Fun!

Why does Akin Elementary need a summer reading program?

When the last school bell rings at the end of May, the Akin Elementary School library closes it's doors for the summer and the books won't see the children until mid August when they return. Why are we allowing such an amazing collection of books and dynamic library program go dormant over the summer months? Why can't students access the library during June & July for additional enrichment to prevent the summer slide. We need a summer reading program!

So what do we do now?

Right now our school community is relying on parents to take their children to the local library for summer library services. Most of our parents work during the day and miss out on the children's library programs available. Akin Elementary community deserves to have access to the library over the summer months for enrichment and neighborhood access to reading materials.

 

According to the Texas State Library Standards, our library ranks as merely acceptable in this area. We can do better. Our students deserve more!

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Components of a great summer reading program:

1. Community Partners/Sponsors/Volunteers

2. Faculty & staff participation

3. Family Participation

4. Advertising

5. Prizes

6. FUN!

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The Plan

  • Create a Google Form to find out what days of the week and times during the summer are good for stakeholders. Select the day/time that works best for the group.

  • The program will last for 8 weeks. Here is the 2020 tentative AGENDA.

  • Find a Sponsor(s): Food/Drinks, Author Visit, Animal Visits, Music

  • Community Guests: Fire/Police/Sports Teams

  • Theme Ideas: Snakes, Community Helpers, Sports, Pets, Geology, 4th of July, Beach, Art, Music

  • Select a book and craft to go along with each theme. Seek out community volunteers as special guests.

  • Reading Log: Students will receive a Summer Reading Bingo card. When they complete 8 tasks they can return the card for a prize. Blackout cards will be entered into a drawing at the end of summer.

  • Students may check out 5 books weekly.

  • Volunteers: Recruit teachers and staff to help administer the program in addition to the librarian. PTA volunteers can help check out books. Create a sign-up list and recruit volunteers prior to the end of school.

  • Advertise: Social media, school email service, yard signs

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Wrapping It Up!

Donate

  • Survey participants & volunteers to improve on next year

  • Send out thank you cards and emails

  • Reconcile  budget 

  • Document your own reflection

  • Hand out prizes

  • Update website & social media

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You can download the Summer Reading Fun 2020 SURVEY HERE. Please encourage each participant to complete a survey.

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