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Elementary-age students are diving into adventure, imagination and learning this June through the EMS ISD Summer Reading Camp, a free, come-and-go experience that turns reading into a summer celebration.

Held on Tuesday mornings at Hatley Elementary School and Thursday mornings at Lake Country Elementary School, the camp is open to all children entering Pre-K through 5th grade in Fall 2025. Each session runs from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m., and no registration is required.

The goal? Keep reading fun, accessible and engaging all summer long.

“This gives them something to do so they’re not just staying home. They’re around other kids and socializing,” said Maria Juarez, whose daughter will be a second-grader this fall.

Each week, students take a new literary journey through “Reading Across the USA.” Every session includes a read-aloud story that transports children to a new place in the country, paired with a hands-on activity that brings the story to life. Whether it’s art, crafts or themed projects, the activities help students connect reading with creativity and exploration.

“We’re bringing the vacation to us,” said Cathy Fassett, the librarian at High Country Elementary School. “It’s fun, relaxed and focused on giving kids positive, meaningful experiences with books.”

Justus Cole, a camp participant, especially enjoyed the book Mae Among the Stars, about Mae Jemison, the first Black woman in space.

“It was a good story,” he said. “Her teacher didn’t believe she could go to space, but she proved her wrong.”

For many families, the camp offers more than just learning, it offers support.

“Reading is a challenge for him,” said Latoya Walker, Cole's mom. "I want him to stay focused over the summer and keep improving. The fact that it’s free is even better, it’s a blessing that the district offers this.”

Other parents echoed similar sentiments.

“I only have so many ideas for summer,” said Mason Blakely, whose daughter attended the Hatley location. “We try to read at night, but this makes sure she’s getting reading in, all throughout the summer.”

And, while they're just getting started, so far this year they've seen record engagement and energy.

“I’ve done the camp the last three years, and this is the most interactive it’s ever been,” said Christine Lewis, the librarian at Gililland Elementary School. “We had a great turnout, and the kids are really connecting with the stories and each other.”

 

EMS ISD Summer Reading Camp continues through June 2025:
📍 Tuesdays at Hatley Elementary: June 3, 10, 17, 24
📍 Thursdays at Lake Country Elementary: June 5, 12, 19, 26
⏰ 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
👧🏽 For EMS ISD students entering Pre-K – 5th grade
📚 No registration needed – just show up and read!

Find out about more EMS ISD summer camp opportunities at www.emsisd.com/summercamps.