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Summer reading benefits students

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By MICHELLE SAGER

msager@tampatrib.com

Published: June 22, 2009

TAMPA - Between the summer camps, car trips and swims in the pool, school leaders hope students read a few good books.

The Florida Department of Education released its annual summer reading list. This year's list places an emphasis on books about Florida ecology. selections include "Henry the Impatient Heron" and "The Everglades, River of Grass."

The DOE released its list in conjunction with the state Department of Environmental Protection, which launched its own Rediscover Florida campaign. The initiative offers residents 100 options to take advantage of Florida nature in 100 days. State education leaders said research shows students who read on school breaks maintain academic progress.

Japera Hodges, third-grade teacher at Witter Elementary's summer reading camp, said reading daily can make a big difference: "It gives the students a chance to practice the reading strategies they learn through the year and help them retain that information for the next school year."

Reporter Michele Sager can be reached at (727) 451-2344.

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