Reading

Mrs. Holzerland

Mrs. Holzerland

I am originally from Pittsburgh, PA (Go Steelers!!!). I moved south to attend Virginia Tech (Go Hokies!!!) where I earned both my undergraduate and graduate degrees. This is my 27th year teaching in Loudoun County. I spent 10 happy years teaching 1st and 2nd grade before becoming a Reading Specialist. I was thrilled to return to the classroom as a kindergarten teacher at Belmont Station and loved every minute of those years. Now I'm back in the Reading Room as a Reading Specialist.  I am looking forward to being a part of the Discovery Family and getting to know your families.  In my free time, I love spending time with my husband and 16-year-old daughter at the beach, watching movies, or just in our backyard around the fire. And, of course, we love playing with our very sweet, and slightly naughty, dogs. You also might find me doing yoga, walking those slightly naughty dogs, reading, or taking pictures.

Ms. Amanda Hall

Ms. Amanda Hall

Phone: 571-252-2370; 703-957-4360

Email Ms. Amanda Hall

BA-Public Communications-The College of Saint Rose
M.Ed.-Counseling/SchoolCounseling-The College of Saint Rose
Teaching Certificate-Lesley College
Endorsement-Reading Specialist-Shenandoah University

I am excited about being a Reading Specialist at Discovery and Little River this year!  This will be my 26th year teaching, and my 20th year as a teacher in Loudoun.  I went to the College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY, Lesley College in Cambridge, MA and Shenandoah University in Winchester, VA. I've taught kindergarten, first, second, and third grades, and have been a SEARCH and EL teacher.  I enjoy walking my dogs, spending time with my daughter, going to the beach, and reading.  I look forward to a wonderful school year!

Summer Reading Tips

  1. Set a daily schedule for reading. It is surprising how quickly the days will fly by. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes of daily reading. 

  2. Model reading. Show your children that you value reading, whether it’s the daily newspaper or a newly-released mystery. They will become more motivated to pick up a book on their own!

  3. Take a field trip to your local library. The Loudoun County Public Library branches have special events all summer long. Be sure to check out this year’s LCPL Summer Reading Program, “Rock at the Library,” which begins Saturday, June 15th!  

  4. Read together. It’s a perfect way to pass an evening on the deck or around the fire pit.

  5. Read the book AND watch the movie. Have discussions about the similarities and differences. Enjoy the time together and maybe a popcorn or two.

  6. Pack books for vacation: Whether you are on a plane, in a car, or visiting family, pack a book(s) for some quiet reading time. 

  7. Start a Book Club. Invite siblings, cousins, parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents, or friends. Decide on a book that everyone can read, and choose a meeting time. It can take place in person, online, or over the phone.

LOOKING FOR SOME TITLES TO GET YOU STARTED???

These books were selected and recommended by student readers, teachers, and librarians. Each title is followed by a description of the book so that students and their parents can make informed choices about which books to read for pleasure this summer.  

ILA Children's Choices Booklists

Each year the International Literacy Association compiles lists of recently published books that children have enjoyed reading. This year's list is divided into three sections:

  • Beginning Readers, Grades K-2, Ages 5-8

  • Young Readers, Grades 3-4, Ages 8-10

  • Advanced Readers. Grades 5-6, Ages 10-12

ALA Book Lists for Children and Young Adults 

The American Library Association provides links to various book lists for children and young adults. Check them out!