Summer Reading Challenge winners to be recognized at iFest

For the fifth year in a row, Highland Elementary School in Elgin turned out the most devoted readers in the Summer Reading Challenge, sponsored by Elgin Area School District U-46 and Gail Borden Public Library.

Sycamore Trails Elementary School in Bartlett saw the most improved participation in the Challenge.

U-46 Chief Executive Officer Tony Sanders and Gail Borden Public Library Executive Director Carole Medal will award the winners of the 2016 Summer Reading Challenge at noon on Saturday, Aug. 27, during the Elgin International Festival, also known as iFest. The school district and Gail Borden Public Library lead the challenge each year to support students in their quest to continue reading during summer vacation.

Nearly 150 of Highland's students participated in the program this summer. Every Thursday afternoon through July, Highland Elementary School Principal Steve Johnson, staff and Highland families gathered at the library to read together in English and Spanish.

"At Highland, we are always encouraging our students to read and stressing its importance," said Principal Johnson. "We want them to keep the momentum going and maintain their reading level from the spring. The Summer Reading Challenge does this in a fun and engaging way."

CEO Sanders will recognize the elementary schools' achievement during the Saturday afternoon iFest. Sycamore Trails Elementary School increased participation by 27 percent; 116 Sycamore Trails students completed the challenge this summer. Clinton Elementary School in South Elgin earned the title last year.

"Congratulations to Highland and Sycamore Trails for their success in fostering student participation in the annual Summer Reading Challenge," said Sanders. "Thanks to our families for making sure their children signed up for the program and visited the libraries. We also couldn't have done it without the support from our public libraries throughout the district."

Both Johnson and Sycamore Trails Principal Lisa Cardenas will attend the award ceremony Saturday with their students and their families.

"We are extremely proud of our Sycamore Trails community for the improved participation in the summer reading challenge," said Principal Cardenas. "I am fortunate to have the best students, staff, teachers and parents. It's a proud day for us Timberwolves!"

All of the 40 elementary schools and the two early learning centers, Illinois Park in Elgin and Independence in Bartlett, participated in the 2016 Summer Reading challenge with 3,023 U-46 students completing the program across the four public libraries that serve the District.

Studies have long demonstrated the importance of reading during the summer months. Students who read during the summer months retain more of their academic skills and are better prepared to learn at the start of the school year. According to the Illinois Library Association, children who read at least six books over the summer score higher in reading and math when they return to school.

"We are extremely pleased that we had a record number of intergenerational reading in families this summer. Reading as a family can have a lifetime impact," said Carole Medal, executive director of the Gail Borden Public Library. "The library staff was thrilled that U-46 school students met here on a weekly basis and we had an exceptional opportunity to recommend great reads to kids on a daily basis."

In addition to Gail Borden Public Library, the public libraries in Bartlett, Carol Stream and Streamwood all participate and encourage the annual Summer Reading Challenge with U-46 staff. In addition to trophies, the two winning schools will be treated to a special prize. For the past several years, they have chosen a visit from the Jesse White Tumblers.