The Reading School District is excited to announce the projected completion of our new state-of-the-art STEM building, designed to inspire and educate the next generation of leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. As we prepare to open this facility, we believe it is important to involve our community in the naming process. Your input is invaluable, and we want to ensure that the name chosen reflects the pride and values of our district and its stakeholders.

The School Board has carefully considered and pre-approved two potential names for the new building. In accordance with School Board Policy 701.1, we invite students, staff, parents, and community members to participate in a brief survey to share your preference of the name of the new school located at 9th and Douglass Streets in Reading. The poll will close on Friday, November 1, 2024.

CLICK HERE TO VOTE

National School Bus Safety Week, observed from October 21-25, is an important time for the Reading School District to reflect on and promote the safety of our students during their daily commutes. This dedicated week highlights the vital role that school bus safety plays in protecting our students and educating them on safe riding practices. We are incredibly grateful for our dedicated RSD transportation team and school bus drivers, whose commitment ensures that students travel to and from school safely every day. Their hard work and vigilance make a huge difference in the lives of our students and their families.

October is National Principals Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible work of our school leaders in the Reading School District. We thank our dedicated principals for their commitment to creating supportive, enriching, and safe learning environments for all students. Their leadership and hard work inspire both students and staff every day, making a lasting impact on our community. Thank you to all our principals for your true dedication.

Reading School District is implementing parent networks by quadrant to improve our family engagement and provide more opportunities for parent voices. To get involved, contact your Parent Outreach Assistant (POA) or Principal. Representatives need to be appointed by the school principal.

Upcoming Meetings:
November 4, 2024 - Northwest Quadrant

November 7, 2024 - Southwest Quadrant
November 13, 2024 - Southeast Quadrant

November 21, 2024 - Northeast Quadrant

• The Berks Community Health Center and Reading Recreation presented.

• The board approved the contract with Zerbe Photography for the 2024-2025 school year.

• An agreement between RSD and the United States Marine Corps JROTC was approved.

• The approval of a 4 year collective bargaining agreement was approved between the International Union of Security, Police, and Fire Professionals of America and its Amalgamated, local No. 506 and the Reading School District.

• An agreement between Landis Mechanical and the Reading School District to replace eleven rooftop HVAC units at RKAA City Line was approved.

• Committee of the Whole - November 20, 2024 at 6 p.m.
• Regular School Board Meeting - Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at 7 p.m.
• School Board Reorganization Meeting - December 4, 2024 at 6 p.m.

• November 3 - Daylight Savings Time Ends (Turn clocks back)

• November 5 - Schools Closed, Election Day
  

• November 20 - Committee of the Whole

• November 25-27 - Parent/Teacher Conferences

• November 25-29 - Thanksgiving Break (Students)

• November 26 - RSD School Board Regular Meeting

• November 28 & 29 - Thanksgiving Break (Staff)

Join us in observing Red Ribbon Week from October 28th to November 1st by participating in Spirit Week. Red Ribbon Week brings awareness to substance abuse prevention and cessation.

• Monday, October 28th - Rally in Red: Wear Red to bring awareness to Red Ribbon Week

• Tuesday, October 29th - Peace Out to Drugs: Wear tye-dye or neon to shine bright against drugs.

• Wednesday, October 30th - Cozy up with Healthy Choices: Rock your flannel or fleece and stay calm, cool, and collected by making positive choices.

• Thursday, October 31st - Who is your superhero?: Dress up as someone who has inspired you to make positive choices in your life.

• Friday, November 1st - Our School chooses to be Drug-Free: Rock your red and black for Red Knight Pride!

On October 7th, Glenside Elementary’s 4th graders embarked on a unique educational field trip to the The Berkshire Country Club. This nationwide initiative, the GCSAA’s First Green program, uses golf courses as hands-on "living labs" for STEAM learning. After the students walked from school they explored interactive stations that dove into topics like soil science, environmental sustainability, water conservation, math, and career paths they might not yet know exist. Through small-group rotations, students experienced the world of golf from both a scientific and environmental lens.

Northwest Area Elementary School’s Cultural Extravaganza was a joyous celebration of Costa Rican culture, featuring student research on the country's animals, land, and notable figures. Students showcased colorful artwork inspired by Costa Rican artist Vinicio Jarquín. Families contributed by sharing their Hispanic heritage through traditional dress, posters, and cultural artifacts. Attendees had the chance to participate in Costa Rica's national sport, soccer, creating a fun and interactive experience. The event successfully blended education, creativity, and community, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for Costa Rican culture.

Community Lap Swimming and Aqua Walking is available from September 15th - November 21st at the Reading High School Pool fon Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:45-7:00 am. $4 per day. Cash only.

No cash? No problem! We’re excited to announce that Reading School District has teamed up with S2 Pass as our brand-new digital ticketing partner! As an option, you can now easily pay with your credit or debit card at any event, or by downloading their super handy mobile app from the Apple or Google Play Store. While this makes your ticketing experience smoother than ever, please note that each transaction will include a small fee, depending on the payment amount. For all the details on how to download and use the app, along with info on the fees, check out RSD’s Athletics page.

October's Artist of the Month is Reading High Senior Senior Kerry Ray Cunningham.

On Thursday night, October 24, 2024, the Geigle Gym at Reading High School came alive with vibrant colors, soulful performances, and cultural pride as the school hosted its Hispanic Heritage Month Showcase. Students from across the Reading School District had spent the entire month preparing for the event, which culminated in a celebration of Hispanic culture through art, music, dance, and food. Special thanks to DJ Serrano for providing the photobooth and music!

Guests were greeted by an array of creative art displays that showcased student talent and honored cultural heritage. The crowd was treated also to a variety of performances that left the audience both inspired and entertained. In addition to the performing arts, attendees also had the chance to enjoy authentic Hispanic cuisine prepared by students and volunteers.

The event was more than just a showcase of talent—it was also a celebration of diversity and unity. Students took pride in sharing their heritage with the broader community, fostering a sense of understanding and togetherness. The showcase highlighted the importance of honoring cultural traditions while celebrating the unique contributions of Hispanic individuals to society.

Thank you goes out to the teachers, staff, and volunteers who helped bring the event to life, as well as to the students who dedicated their time and energy to creating such a memorable experience. Additionally, a special thanks is extended to everyone who attended, as their support made the evening even more meaningful.

During Fire Prevention Week, the Reading Fire Department visited students across the Reading School District to promote fire safety awareness. Fire Prevention Week is crucial as it educates young people on the importance of fire safety, equipping them with knowledge to help protect their homes and families. The Reading Fire Department aims to reduce the risk of fires and ensure that children know how to respond safely in emergencies.

Join us for our new, Parent Seminars! These informational and training sessions will be held to help Reading School District parents and families with a variety of topics. Each topic will have two sessions, one in English and the other in Spanish. The first session can be viewed below, all others will be uploaded to the RSD Youtube channel after each presentation.

Our second seminar, “Winter Activities: how to stay active!” will be held on Wednesday, November 9th! 4:30 p.m. will be the English session and 5:30 p.m. will be the Spanish session.

The Reading School District proudly offers a resource called the Knights Closet to help with basic needs. RSD Social Workers assist students and families in accessing essential items like shampoo, soap, toothbrushes, and school supplies. In recent years, we’ve expanded our support to ensure we’re removing barriers for our students. If you or someone you know needs assistance or would like to contribute, please reach out to your school’s social worker. For more details, visit: https://www.readingsd.org/Page/403

The RSD Mental Health Committee alongside In Mind Services are SO excited to be offering a 4-session series for “R” Guardians. This series has been created based off the Parent Interest Survey that was dispersed at the end of last year. Please see the “Guardians of “R” Knights” Flyer for more information, as dinner and childcare will be provided for this LIVE event. Any Guardians who attend all 4 sessions (Live Kick Off Event on November 7th and 3 virtual sessions) will be entered to win a Staycation Raffle Prize including a FREE night at the Double Tree of Reading. We hope to see you on November 7th.

Make sure to check out all episodes of Red Knight Radio which airs live on Albright Radio WXAC 91.3, then rebroadcast on the RSD YouTube channel. Our incredible hosts, Dorcas Ramos and Arleny Pimentel, along with various guests, dive into exciting topics focused on the Reading School District. Make sure to like, subscribe, and share! You won’t want to miss a single episode!

Donate to the Knights Closet:

We are in need of essential items to stock the Knights Keep shelves. Priority items include shampoo, conditioner, soap, laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, and gift cards. You can bring your donations to Central Middle School or the Administration Building. https://www.readingsd.org/Page/403

Partner with Community Aid (5370 Allentown Pike, Reading, PA 19560):

We are excited to announce a new partnership with Community Aid. Donations made using our partnership code 50249 will provide credit to RSD, which supports our students and families. To make a donation, please visit: https://communityaid.org/

Volunteer Opportunities:

If you're interested in volunteering, please visit our website and follow the volunteer process. We will reach out as we begin to staff additional volunteer positions. For more information, visit: https://www.readingsd.org/Page/1904

Thank you once again for your support and dedication to enhancing the resources available to our students. Together, we are making a significant impact!

Calling all RSD Staff! Help us reach our fundraising goal of $53,000 for the United Way. Check out our staff tab on our website to view all of the fantastic incentives we have to offer this year.

Click the picture above to view all RSD Staff Shout Outs

Reading School District is an equal opportunity employer and prides itself on its recruitment and selection procedures and processes. Our Human Resources Department is instrumental in posting and advertising for open positions; the collection, screening, and processing of application packets; facilitating the interview process, and responding to applicant inquiries. The goal is to attract qualified applicants who will enhance the educational program for the District’s almost 18,000 students.

For more information on the Department of Human Resources or if you have specific questions regarding employment opportunities or benefits available to you as a Reading School District employee, please contact us at (484) 278-7000.