Rowlett Middle Academy believes that independent reading plays an influential role in many aspects of both academic and personal development, including but not limited to:
- Reading fluency & vocabulary development;
- Improved spelling & writing skills;
- Development of greater background knowledge on a variety of topics;
- Stronger analytical and critical thinking skills;
- Improved focus and concentration;
- Increased empathy towards others;
- Reduced stress/anxiety;
- Entertainment and greater sense of community.
Independent reading is a requirement of your child’s Language Arts course. Book selections may be made from shared classroom libraries or from the RMA Media Center. RMA classroom libraries and the RMA Media Center are well stocked with many popular titles that appeal to a broad array of reading abilities and interests. Please be advised that while every effort is made to ensure that content is appropriate for middle grades and emerging high school readers, there are some young adult (YA) titles* that may contain more mature language or subject matter. Just like movies and online content, we strongly recommend that you become knowledgeable about the books your student is reading, so you may have meaningful discussions at home. Parents are encouraged to research the title and provide guidelines to their child about what may be appropriate reading material for your family.
Helpful resources for reviewing book titles include : https://www.commonsensemedia.org/ , https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/bookwizard/ and https://www.goodreads.com/
As an alternative, you are always welcome to provide books from home to satisfy the independent reading component.
PLEASE INDICATE YOUR CONSENT OR "OPT OUT" BY ANSWERING THE QUESTIONS BELOW
You are welcome to contact your child's ELA teacher, or RMA's Media Specialist, if you have any questions.
* What are Young Adult (YA) books?- Books with recommended age range of 12+ (based on several professional review sites and discretion of teacher and/or media specialist) will be labeled "YA" on the spine of the book and are located in a designated section of the classroom library or media center.
- YA novels include teen-relevant content, which motivates students to read. YA titles tend to serve as "cautionary tales," delivering strong messages about the negative consequences of engaging in hurtful or selfish behaviors. They may include more mature language and/or content.
It is the parent’s/guardian’s responsibility to communicate with your child if YA titles are not appropriate for your child. With receipt of this completed form, your decision will be noted both in the Media Center and with your student's ELA teacher.
