Assemblyman David G. McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) announced he is sponsoring the 2005 Summer Reading Challenge at elementary schools in his district. The Summer Reading Challenge is designed to encourage students to continue learning –through reading – during the summer weeks and school vacation.

"Just because the school year is over doesn’t mean students should stop reading," McDonough said. "The Summer Reading Challenge encourages parents to read with their children and teaches youngsters the importance of reading in their efforts to become lifelong learners."

McDonough has distributed more than 5,000 Summer Reading Challenge brochures and calendars to elementary schools throughout the 19th Assembly District. The brochure includes a list of recommended books students and their parents or guardians can read together during the summer. The list suggests books written for students from preschool age to sixth grade, and includes categories such as adventure, fantasy, friendship, humor, mystery, poetry and sports.

During July and August, students mark their calendars for each day they read for at least 15 minutes. Students who read for at least 40 days during the summer will each receive a New York State Assembly Excellence in Reading Certificate.

"Many local school districts agreed to distribute Summer Reading Challenge calendars to their students. Their support is essential in promoting learning and reading during the summer and making this program a success," McDonough concluded.

For more information or to request a Summer Reading Challenge brochure and calendar, call McDonough’s district office at (516) 731-8830 or e-mail the assemblyman at mcdonod@assembly.state.ny.us.