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Dear Dogwood Families,

I am writing to you today about something that sits at the very heart of your child’s success in school and in life: reading.

Reading is not just another subject. It is the foundation for every other subject. When students become strong readers, they gain confidence. They participate more fully in class. They understand math problems more clearly. They explore science and social studies with curiosity. Reading opens every door.

At school, our teachers work hard every single day to teach the skills students need to become proficient readers. We provide explicit instruction in phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. We differentiate. We reteach. We support. But there is an important truth we must share openly: reading is a skill that requires consistent practice. Just like learning to play an instrument or becoming strong in a sport, children must practice reading regularly to improve.

This is where we need you.

There is a gap between learning a skill and mastering it. That gap can only be closed with practice in real books, every single day. Our instruction provides the foundation, but nightly reading at home builds the strength, stamina, and confidence students need to truly grow.

We are asking every family to commit to reading every night. Even 20 minutes makes a powerful difference. Read with your child. Listen to them read. Ask questions. Talk about the story. Make it a calm and consistent part of your evening routine.

For families who speak a language other than English at home, please know how valuable you are in this process. You do not have to read in English to support your child’s literacy development. Reading in your home language strengthens vocabulary, comprehension, and a love of books. Talk about stories. Ask your child to retell what they read in English. Discuss characters and ideas in the language that feels most natural to your family. Strong thinking in any language strengthens reading in every language.

We cannot do this alone. And you should not have to either.

When schools and families partner together, students thrive. When children see that the adults in their lives are united around reading, they understand that it matters. They rise to that expectation.

I am asking you to join us in making reading a daily priority. Let us close the practice gap together. Let us build confident, capable readers together. Let us ensure every child at Dogwood has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.

Thank you for your partnership, your commitment, and your belief in your child.

With gratitude,

Kate
Principal, Dogwood

From hands-on STEM robotics and independent creative projects to interactive small-group literacy and whole-class reflections, our students are thriving. Whether they are exploring phonics with teachers or building together at their desks, every moment is an opportunity for discovery and growth.