SUMMER OF LEARNING

In June of 2008, the Third Street Community Center launched the Summer of Learning Program (SOL).

SOL provides children opportunities to continue their education in mathematics and English language skills.  Emphasize is place on reading by providing a selection of books so that children can self select their reading material.  Through the use of reading circles, children practice active listening, improve their reading comprehend skills, and learn to nurture a love of reading. Children are also encouraged to further their math skills through a combination of lesson plans in the classroom and homework assignments. Both academic components include the use of educational mentors which reinforce the positive connections that children may have established with mentors during the school year.

Promoting fitness and healthy eating habits is another component of SOL.  Children are provided daily opportunities for active play at city parks and other outdoor activities. They are also provided daily healthy food and drink options for breakfast and lunch.

Students in grades 6-8 participate in a leadership develop group that includes forming a leadership council, assigning leadership roles within the council, and added responsibilities. Activities include planning and coordinating logistics for one field trip, internet research, photography, assisting with the preparation of breakfast and lunch, coordinating physical activities, and developing a newsletter or newspaper documenting the activities of all children in the program.

This program operates from June to August.

The SOL Program is only open to qualifying elementary and middle school students in grades 2 – 8 who have successfully participated in our After School Academic Program or in our Robotics Program during the school year.

Parents or legal guardians of qualifying students are notified in May.  Students are expected to maintain a 95% attendance rate for the 6-week duration of the program.