June 3, 2024

Adventures with Backpacks and Encouragement

SALINAS — As the school year draws to a close, the Salinas City Elementary School District is sending students on an exciting summer learning journey with specially curated reading backpacks. Containing three grade-level-appropriate books, along with an encouraging message from Superintendent Rebeca Andrade, the backpacks aim to keep students engaged and prevent the “summer slide”—the learning loss that can occur during breaks from school.

"Building home libraries empowers students to take charge of their own learning and inspires them to become avid readers,” Dr. Andrade says. “Yes, reading is essential for academic success, and by providing these resources, we aim to cultivate a lifelong love of learning in our children."

Research has shown that consistent reading over the summer can prevent learning loss and set students up for success in the upcoming school year. By providing age-appropriate and engaging books, Salinas City ESD is committed to supporting the educational journey of every student.

Summer reading also can help students with the following:

• Building a love of reading: Summer can be a time for kids to explore different genres and find books they truly enjoy. This can foster a lifelong love of reading that benefits them in all areas of life.
• Sharpening other skills: Reading exposes students to new ideas and information, strengthens critical thinking skills, and improves concentration.
• Social-emotional benefits: Books can help kids understand different perspectives and develop empathy. They can also be a source of comfort and entertainment.

“Reading is a gateway to learning like no other. As students head into the summer, we want to build on the momentum created throughout the year,” says Ron Dillender, Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services. “The materials in these backpacks are intended to help students feel excited to to continue exploring the world through the magic of books.”

The District is encouraging families to read the books together, or set aside a few minutes to talk about what their children have read. Learning never stops, and we're happy to bring our students this opportunity to learn even more over the summer.

For more information, please contact Mary Duan, Director of Communications and Community
Engagement, at mary.duan@salinascity.k12.ca.us or 831-455-6789.