Friday, November 7, 2025
As the superintendent of Valley Stream UFSD 13, I have the privilege of witnessing the joy and growth that comes from building a positive reading life, not just for our students, but also for families and the wider community. In today’s world, where distractions are everywhere and screens compete for our attention, fostering a real love of reading is more important than ever.
A reading life is more than just the act of reading. It’s about weaving reading into the fabric of our daily routines, making it a source of curiosity, relaxation and shared experiences. For children, a reading life is the foundation of imagination and learning. For adults, it’s a way to continue growing, connecting and finding enjoyment in a busy world.
But how do we describe our own reading lives? For me it includes everything from getting lost in a novel to exploring travel websites or following a new quilt pattern. It might be a quiet moment in the evening, or a lively discussion with colleagues about the latest in education research. Around the office, we like to say, “You have to read to lead!” In Valley Stream, we strive to show our children that reading isn’t an obligation, but rather a lifelong gift worth cherishing.
Since 2013, Valley Stream UFSD 13 has maintained a ban on personal internet-enabled devices in our elementary schools. Limiting screen time gives children important advantages. Without constant digital distractions, they are more likely to develop deeper focus, stronger attention spans and better self-regulation. It encourages them to engage in meaningful activities such as reading, creative play and face-to-face social interactions, all of which help build imagination, empathy and communication skills.
By prioritizing offline experiences, children can cultivate habits that nurture lifelong learning and personal growth. If we remove digital distractions, not only for students but also for ourselves, we have a fresh opportunity to immerse ourselves in books and build positive reading habits that last.
One of the greatest strengths of a positive reading life is the freedom to choose. Just as there are countless flavors of ice cream and types of music or movies, there are endless varieties of reading — graphic novels, biographies, mysteries and so much more. Choice makes reading personal and engaging. When children (and adults!) are empowered to choose what they read, the act becomes more enjoyable and meaningful. Our district libraries are filled with diverse titles to ensure that everyone can find something that sparks their interest.
Families play a central role, too. I encourage parents to read aloud at home, create cozy reading spaces, and let their children choose their own books. It is these daily habits — the shared bedtime stories, the trips to the library, the excitement of a new book — that lay the groundwork for a lifelong love of reading. Share your reading life with your children by pointing out everything you’re reading, whether it’s an article, a comic book, a music score or a menu.
Research is clear: Early literacy profoundly shapes a child’s future. Children who read regularly perform better academically, and develop stronger language and critical thinking skills. They are more likely to succeed in higher education and contribute meaningfully to society.
In New York state, anecdotally, high schools have reported a noticeable uptick in library circulation and student engagement with books since the bell-to-bell ban on smartphones began. In Valley Stream, we are proud to be part of this movement. Our school libraries are filled with opportunities to read, and we have strong partnerships with our community libraries.
The ripple effects of cultivating a reading life extend well beyond individual students. Communities that value reading enjoy higher civic engagement, stronger bonds and a greater sense of shared purpose. Book clubs, library programs and community reading challenges all help foster understanding and empathy among neighbors.
Let’s work together, as families, educators and neighbors, to make reading a cherished tradition in our community. Encourage your children to discover new stories, visit our libraries — online or in person — and celebrate the joy of reading at every opportunity. By nurturing positive reading lives, we are investing not only in our children’s futures, but also in the strength and spirit of our entire community.
I am proud of the progress we’ve made and deeply committed to keeping the love of reading alive for generations to come.
Judith A. LaRocca is superintendent of Valley Stream Union Free School District 13.
