Summer does not mean no homework for Hinsdale Central students.

For the past 12 years, the summer reading program has kept students’ noses in a book.The program is slated to continue in future summers, but discussions this fall could bring changes.

“We’re taking a look at whether we want to continue with the same format,” said Elizabeth Bannon, an AP World Literature teacher and summer reading selection committee member.

The program began when research revealed the need to maintain reading skills and strategies over the summer for a smooth re-entry in the fall, said English Department chair Suzanne Strohschein. Incoming freshmen through seniors read one core book per grade and select a second book from a pre-selected list of four titles.

When the program began, only one book was required, but now two is the standard number. Few students said summer reading was a burden, but it is another aspect to fit into a busy summer.

“I don’t think it’s overwhelming, I just think it’s hard to squeeze in between college visits, family vacations and camps,” said senior Amanda Nieman.

Some teachers said the program helps them hit the ground running when students return in the fall. English teacher Lenny DePasquale said summer reading prevents the delay that can sometimes come with opening activities and book introductions.

“It would be a week or two before you could really get into the text,” DePasquale said. “(Summer reading) just gets everyone on the same page right away.”

Particularly for freshman, who come from different middle schools, DePasquale said, the summer reading books can unify the grade.

Most teachers offer an assessment, usually a quiz or an in-class essay, to test comprehension. Some teachers explore the novel through projects, graded discussions or even skits.

English teacher Jared Friebel said the theme from the summer reading core book — for juniors, a creative non-fiction novel — can be a recurring theme for the semester in his expository writing class.

“I think summer reading requires them to read something that they may not pick up on their own, to encounter something they may not encounter,” Friebel said.

While the program’s goal is primarily educational, the English Department also selects titles enjoyable for students.

“The idea is to make it fun,” Strohschein said. “It’s something we hope they can read and enjoy on their own.”