Dear Parents:

On behalf of the English Department, faculty, and administration. I would like to thank you for your support of our summer reading program these past few years. Our students have benefited greatly from it, and therefore I am confident you will continue to support our newly revised program.

Yes, we have increased our requirements to two books for grades seven through ten. Eleventh grade honors students will now read three books while AP students will read four. These increases are by no means excessive or unusual--most independent schools (as well as many public ones) have instituted similar summer reading requirements. Furthermore, given the increased emphasis of reading and writing skills on the new SAT, alone with declining test scores across the nation in those areas, it makes sense to afford our children as many reading opportunities as possible. Of course, the experience that reading acclaimed literature can provide the mind and spirit is at least as important as standardized test scores.

In some courses (particularly honors and AP), some writing journal keeping, or other activity may accompany the reading in order to meet those above-stated goals. Be certain to check with the grade level teacher if you have any questions about such assignments. As in the past, students should expect a test (or similar evaluation) on their summer reading during the first week of school in August.

I again invite you to read along with your children and share your insights, thoughts, and memories with them. When young people see they are members of a reading community, and that reading is crucial to linking one to our culture and history, they are more likely to become competent, interest readers. Encourage your children by setting a good reading example.

Thank you again for your dedication to OPS.

Sincerely,
Dr. Mark Van Gunten
English Department Chairman