NYC Summer Learning Program Combats 'Summer Slide' and Helps Students Catch Up

NYC Summer Program Fights 'Summer Slide' and Helps Students Catch Up

The summer months can be a time for kids to relax and have fun, but they can also lead to academic setbacks known as the "summer slide." This is especially true for students from low-income families, who are disproportionately affected by the issue.

Research shows that students across the country are falling behind academically, with 8th graders needing an entire extra year of schooling to reach pre-pandemic levels. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for summer learning programs.

One program, "Summer Boost", is helping NYC students recover from learning loss. Run by Bloomberg Philanthropies and Harlem Village Academies, the program provides five weeks of intensive learning for students in grades 1-6. While there's a focus on reading and math, the program also includes unique workshops, projects, and field trips.

Students are enthusiastic about the program and report feeling more confident in their abilities. "Some tests in 5th grade, I felt like I struggled so much. Like I even couldn't breathe, it felt like so overwhelming and depressed. But in this test, I actually understand what I'm doing," said Lorenzo Perez, a student in the program.

Parents also see the benefits of "Summer Boost". "It's not a conversation you have in May. It's a conversation you start to have in January of how are we progressing? Where are the places that your child might need a little bit more reinforcement?" said Lorenzo's mom, Genille Perez.

The success of "Summer Boost" shows how crucial summer learning programs are in helping students recover from the pandemic's impact and stay on track academically.