Summer Reading 2026 – 2027

Dear St. Alphonsus Families,

As summer begins, we hope this season brings your family time to rest, recharge, and enjoy the many gifts God has given us—sunshine, laughter, and time together. While summer is a wonderful break from the school year routine, it is also a special opportunity to keep our young minds growing through the joy of reading. 

We are excited to announce our 2026-2027 school year Summer Reading for students at SAS! This program is designed to help students stay engaged and prepared for the upcoming school year.

Each student is required to read the book listed below for their upcoming grade level and one book of their choice on their reading level based on their 4th nine weeks STAR scores.

Required Books

•    3rd Grade: Third Grade Angels by Jerry Spinelli
•    4th Grade: Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
•    5th Grade: One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
•    6th Grade: Wonder by R.J. Palacio
•    7th Grade: The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis
•    8th Grade: Refugee by Alan Gratz

Students should read their assigned book and the book of their choice over the summer and be prepared to dive into enriching activities and meaningful discussions based on these when they return to school in the fall.  Students will also complete AR tests on their assigned book as well as the book of their choice.

We encourage families to make reading a daily habit—whether it’s independently, together, or through audiobooks. Making time for reading each day helps strengthen comprehension, vocabulary, and a lifelong love of learning.

If you need help selecting a book at the appropriate reading level for your child, families are encouraged to use the website arbookfind.com

We look forward, with great enthusiasm, to welcoming our students back in August, refreshed, inspired, and ready for another wonderful school year at St. Alphonsus Catholic School! 

Mrs. Penton