Family and Community Newsletter, June 26th and 27th, 2023

Family and Community Newsletter - June 26th - 27th, 2023

Summer "Homework" for 6th and 7th Graders - Summer Reading 2023

Dear Families, 

When students return to school in the fall, many of them often start the academic year with achievement levels lower than where they were at the beginning of summer break. This phenomenon – sometimes referred to as summer learning loss, summer setback, or summer slide – is of great consequence to us at 75 Morton.  The research suggests that if students simply read - any books - we can offset this loss.  Therefore, this year, like every year, we are requiring that every student read at least 5 books of their choosing this summer.

Where will kids get their books?  There are a number of possibilities - 

  1. On their own.  Of course, kids can always get books from their public libraries and bookstores.  Independent access to books is always a goal here at Morton.

  2. Here in school.  We will be setting up a summer book "shopping" room for kids to get for summer books for free.  This "shopping" will take place the week of June 12 during independent reading classes.

In addition to book shopping, Rebecca, the Jefferson Market Young People’s Librarian, will be here with NYPL summer book lists and some giveaways (although the NYPL summer reading program is much smaller this summer).  She will also be signing kids up for library cards. 

Finally, it has been a Morton tradition for kids to come into school in the Fall with a picture of themselves and their books. A slide to explain this will be provided for all 6th & 7th graders. The goal will be to cover the bulletin boards with summer reading pictures in September. 

It is the work of independent reading classes to set kids up for the summer. However, we need YOU to support your child's success this summer by reminding them of their assignment and providing them the space and support to read at least 5 books. 

Any questions, concerns, or ideas?  Contact Donna at donna@75morton.org

Announcements

  • Students will receive report cards, attendance, and MAP report on Monday, June 26th.

  • Note - Tuesday, June 27th is a full day of school