Educators have long lamented the dreaded 'summer slide,' but communities are more active than ever in providing resources to prevent it.
Written by Lana Cohen.
Published June 17, 2024 in the Portland Press Herald. Read the full article here.
Many districts in Maine and around the country offer summer programs to keep kids engaged in learning, help them catch up where they fell behind during the school year, build connections in the community and get ready for the upcoming school year.
The South Portland School District plans to provide programs for elementary and high school students who are at risk of or already are falling behind, such as multilingual students in sixth through 12th grade who have had limited exposure to formal education or could otherwise benefit from additional schooling and more summer camp programs including outdoor adventure, hiking and storytelling opportunities.
“Educators do try to make it feel special and different,” said Assistant Superintendent Johanna Prince. “It has a different flavor than school year learning.”
Prince said she recognizes that for many students, summer is a time to recharge. But it can also be a time for kids to continue learning, and that continued learning can help prepare kids to continue their education and enter the workforce.
This, she said, is most important for disadvantaged students, students who are disengaged or those who often miss school.
“The more we can create a positive experience for kids and families, the better,” said Prince. “Kids are capable if they feel connected and ready to learn.”