Hillcrest, Oct. Family Newsletter
The Importance of Reading at Home: How Families Help Build Strong Readers
We are committed to supporting every child’s academic growth—and one of the most effective ways families can contribute is also one of the simplest: reading with children at home. For elementary-aged students, shared reading is a powerful predictor of long-term success in school and beyond.
Why Reading Together Matters
Studies consistently show that early and regular exposure to books strengthens children’s language development, increases vocabulary, and boosts overall academic performance.
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Research cited by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that children who are read to regularly hear up to 1.4 million more words by the time they enter kindergarten compared to children who are not read to as often.
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The National Education Association reports that students who read for pleasure score higher in reading, writing, and even math.
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Brain-imaging studies show that shared reading activates areas of the brain associated with comprehension, imagination, and emotional processing—skills essential for school success.
Benefits Beyond Academics
Reading with children also strengthens family relationships. Taking a few minutes to enjoy a book together creates meaningful routines, encourages conversations, and helps children develop empathy and confidence. These social-emotional skills are deeply connected to success in the classroom.
How Families Can Support Reading at Home
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Establish a consistent reading routine. Even 15 minutes a day makes a significant difference.
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Encourage choice. Allowing children to select books increases motivation and helps them develop reading identities.
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Talk about the book. Ask questions, make predictions, and discuss characters. These small conversations deepen comprehension.
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Model reading. When children see adults reading newspapers, books, or magazines, they understand that reading is a valuable part of daily life.
A Partnership for Student Success
When schools and families work together to encourage reading, we create a foundation for lifelong learning. We appreciate your partnership in fostering a love of books and supporting literacy at home.
Thank you for your continued support and involvement in your child's educational journey. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me by phone, at 605-696-4600, or by email, at kate.mogard@k12.sd.us.
Kate Mogard
Hillcrest Elementary Principal
VFW Auxiliary
The VFW Auxiliary visited Hillcrest to teach classes about the U.S. flag and flag etiquette.
Pumpkins
PreK learners enjoyed a day of pumpkin painting!
1st Grade Readers
We caught these readers practicing their skills in the 1st Grade Learning Area.
Ag in the Classroom
Several of our classes have had visitors from SDSU’s Little National Ag in the classroom. These lessons highlight South Dakota agriculture and help our learners to make connections that are close to home.
Mastery!
Learners in 2nd and 3rd grade are working on their fact fluency in addition/subtraction and multiplication/division. We always congratulate learners when they achieve this goal!
PE Wall of Fame
Emery and Grayson earned the October/November honors of the PE Hall of Fame for giving their best efforts at PE.
If you are cleaning out closets over our winter break, please consider sending these items to school to help us restock our supply of extra clothes!
Boys' Pants: Size 4/5 and 6
Boys' Underwear: Small sizes
Girls' Pants/Leggings: Size 4/5 and 6
Girls' Underwear: Small sizes
Click here to start the process.
You can also view your balance and add money to your account here.
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Important Brookings School District Dates
- December 19: Noon Dismissal (Bell Debate) & Start of Winter Break
- December 22 - January 4: Winter Break
- January 5: Teacher Work Day (No School)
- January 6: Welcome Back!
Visit our District Calendar Page for more dates and information!
