Summer is one of our favorite times of the year. Not only do we get to spend more time reading, students and staff members are asking us for reading recommendations. Whether you are looking for a reading contest or a book list, we have compiled some suggestions that can be used for a variety of readers.
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The New York Times is hosting their 5th Annual 15-Second Vocabulary Video Challenge. This challenge invites students to create a short video that teaches a vocabulary term. Deadline is February 23.  Interested?  Click here for more information. 

Admit it. As much as we want students to use databases for a majority of their research needs, many students will still choose to search via Google. Now, instead of students having to choose, Gale’s Opposing Viewpoints in Context database offers the ability to search database content alongside Google search results.
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​Illinois students from kindergarten through high school can help celebrate the state’s bicentennial by using their imaginations and artistic skills in a contest sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. The contest theme is “Happy Birthday, Illinois.” Students can explore that theme by drawing or painting anything they want, from famous moments in Illinois history to Lincoln eating birthday cake. Artwork may be submitted until December 15, 2017. The winning pieces will be displayed at the Lincoln Presidential Library throughout the bicentennial year of 2018. Click here for details.

​Are you an aspiring writer? If so, challenge yourself by participating in the National Novel Writing Month's program. NaNoWriMo values "enthusiasm, determination, and a deadline for anyone who has ever thought about writing a novel."  Starting November 1, participants have one month to write a 50,000 word novel.​

​Win up to $1,000! ​All you have to do is write a letter to the author of a book, poem or play explaining how their work changed your view of the world. Deadline is December 9. View a flyer here, or see Mrs. Mason for more information.