Free Read at Home Book Packs for Alamogordo K-3 Kids
Published 6 November 2026
Every kindergarten through 3rd grade student in Alamogordo Public Schools will get four free take-home book packs this school year through New Mexico's new Read at Home plan. The books are matched to each child's reading level, they are the family's to keep, and each one has a QR code for a short video lesson from a teacher.
If you have a little one learning to read, this is good news for your kitchen table. Here is how it works.
What is New Mexico's Read at Home plan?
It is a statewide early literacy program from the New Mexico Public Education Department (PED). According to the Albuquerque Journal, PED will hand out about 3 million books to more than 75,000 kindergarten through 3rd grade students at public and charter schools, with districts starting in November. The plans are required under Senate Bill 37, the High Quality Literacy Act, passed earlier this year.
The Journal reports that the books come from Just Right Reader, a Texas-based company, and that the program cost the state $8.9 million, which also pays for teacher training on the materials.
| Read at Home at a glance | What to know |
|---|---|
| Who gets books | Every APS student in kindergarten through 3rd grade |
| How many packs | Four packs during the 2026-2027 school year |
| Books per pack | About 10, according to the Albuquerque Journal |
| Cost to families | Free, and the books are yours to keep |
| Video lessons | Scan the QR code on each cover for a 2 to 3 minute phonics lesson |
| Languages | Video lessons in up to 14 languages |
What is in each Take-Everywhere Literacy Pack?
According to the Alamogordo Public Schools November Community Newsletter, each pack includes:
- Decodable books matched to your child. They fit your child's reading level and the phonics skills they are working on in class.
- Books to keep. These are not library books, so your child can start building a home library.
- Short video lessons. A QR code on each cover opens a 2 to 3 minute phonics lesson led by a teacher, in up to 14 languages.
- A family activity guide and tracker. Simple games, discussion questions and a "High-Five" tracker on the back cover to celebrate rereading.
How do families use the books at home?
APS suggests a simple 15 to 20 minute routine. You do not need to be a reading teacher.
- Watch (2 to 3 minutes). Scan the QR code together and watch the lesson.
- Read (7 to 10 minutes). Have your child read the book aloud to you, sounding out words.
- Practice (3 to 5 minutes). Go over 3 to 5 letter sounds or focus words from the story.
- Talk (2 to 3 minutes). Ask a few questions about the story to build vocabulary and understanding.
Is there help for parents?
Yes. APS lists virtual family workshops with each round of books: November 4 (getting started), December 2, February 24 and April 29. The district has also listed a Parent University session on the Read at Home program this month at The HUB, 805 12th Street. The newsletter shows two different dates for that session, so check the APS Parent University page or call the APS Call Center at (575) 812-8573 to confirm.
Why does this matter for families and newcomers?
Reading at home is one of the easiest ways to help a young child, and this program puts free books, a plan and teacher videos right in your hands. If you are moving here with young kids, it is one more thing to know about our schools. My Moving to Alamogordo page has more on settling in, and Holloman families can start with my PCSing to Holloman schools guide. For kids under 5, my post on free books from the Imagination Library covers the free book-a-month program in Otero County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Read at Home plan in New Mexico?
It is a state early literacy program that sends free books home with kindergarten through 3rd grade students. It is required under Senate Bill 37, the High Quality Literacy Act.
Who gets Read at Home book packs in Alamogordo?
Every Alamogordo Public Schools student in kindergarten through 3rd grade. Each child receives four packs during the school year.
Do families have to return the books?
No. The books belong to your child, so you can keep them and build a home library.
What languages are the video lessons in?
The video lessons are available in up to 14 languages. Scan the QR code on each book cover to open them.
How long should we read each day?
APS suggests a 15 to 20 minute routine. Watch the video, read aloud, practice a few sounds and talk about the story.
Details come from the Alamogordo Public Schools November 2026 Community Newsletter, the APS Parent University page and the Albuquerque Journal's October 29, 2026 report on the New Mexico Public Education Department's Read at Home plan, checked 6 November 2026.