IDEA Public Schools will be closed for Winter Break from December 21 through January 6. During this time, we recommend fixing up some hot chocolate, snuggling under some covers, and reading with your child.  When your child finishes a book, remind him or her to test on it online via the Accelerated Reader software!  Afterward, throw in some fun math games online too!

That’s right, IDEA’s Accelerated Reader & iLearning Hotspot software will be available during the break.  The math and reading fun never ends for your child!  You can access online information and login credentials here.    

In the spirit of reading and the holidays, here are three of our favorite books sure to captivate your child over Winter Break.  Check them out at your local library, or see if they’re available at your child’s campus AR zone.

Lower Academy (Grades K-2)

Snowmen at Night

By Caralyn Buehner

With snowflakes gently falling outside (even in the Rio Grande Valley!), this book is the perfect read for your young, budding scholar.  Snowmen At Night reveals the wonderful wintertime secret—when we are sleeping, the snowmen wake up and have incredible adventures.

Upper Academy (Grades 3-5)

Star Wars Jedi Academy Series

By Jeffrey Brown

Has your child caught the Star Wars fever yet?  If so, make sure they check out this fun series.  Young Jedi battle foes, bond together, and learn important lessons in a galaxy far far away.

Middle School (Grade 6-8)

The Thief Lord

By Cornelia Funke

This enchanting throwback is a must-read for fans of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson.  Pick up this page-turner for your child and he or she will be magically transported to Venice, Italy in the early twentieth century, and meet a pair of orphans who encounter the mysterious “Thief Lord” in the wondrous city of canals.