Approximately 170 students from throughout the district continued their love of learning while enrolled in the district’s 2019 Summer Program from July 1 – Aug. 2 at Shaw Avenue Elementary School. The annual program provides support for incoming K-6 students in need of academic intervention services and features 21st century learning with an array of enrichment opportunities.

Now in its seventh year, the program reinforces what students learned during the school year and allows for individualized attention to be set on each student’s academic progress. Facilitated by summer school coordinator Erica Suarez and dedicated teachers, students receive support in the areas of English language arts and mathematics, while also participating in art, music and physical education enrichment sessions and social emotional learning activities. 

The program is separated into two different curriculums based on grade levels. Students entering grades 3-6 build on their mathematics and reading strategies with comprehensive assessments, while younger students problem-solve with weekly science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics activities.

Embracing the district’s strategic plan of building 21st century learners, students also utilize instructional technology during the program. Younger students enhance their reading skills with the program Raz-Kids, while third and fourth graders participate in WeDo LEGO Robotics and eSpark, an individualized adaptive ELA and math curriculum. Students entering fifth and sixth grade put their critical thinking skills to the test with programs such as Tynker, a new addition to the summer curriculum. Tynker is a coding program that allows students to develop a foundation in computer science and programming, while gaining other important skills along the way. 

“Learning is an ongoing process not limited by a school calendar,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nicholas Stirling. “I am very proud that the board of education and staff are able to provide learning opportunities for students during the summer. Ms. Suarez is thanked for her efforts in supporting the district’s goal of achieving excellence through an equity agenda.”