Keep Learning Alive this Summer

Communicator
May 2015, Volume 38, Issue 9

Like most educators across the nation, principals are working hard to finish the year strong. This can be especially hard, though, when there’s often only one thing on students’ minds: summer. For many students, however, important gains made during the school year get lost in what’s known as summer slide.

Summer learning loss has a serious impact in a student’s ability to succeed academically when they return to school in the fall. Research shows that most students lose two months in mathematical computational skills over the summer, and that low-income students can lose more than two months in reading achievement.

With the right mindset and resources, however, summer learning loss can turn into growth. Use these three resources to keep learning alive in the summer months.

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1. Exercising Kids’ Minds During the Summer

There are numerous ways families can incorporate learning into their child’s everyday activities over the break. Distribute this issue of Report to Parents to families to give them simple ideas to help their child grow during the summer.
English Version | Spanish Version

2. The Rewards of Reading

Giving students a summer reading list is only half the battle. It’s just as important to let families know how much reading at home matters. Give this handout to parents to help them assist their child’s reading over the break.
English Version | Spanish Version

3. Reinforce Math Skills With Everyday Activities

Although reading with children is key to improving literacy, it’s easy to forget that practicing math at home can be just as impactful. In fact, summer learning loss is often more prevalent in math than it is in reading. This issue of Report to Parents teaches families fun and creative ways to practice math with their kids.
English Version | Spanish Version

Don’t Forget about Your Staff!

Students aren’t the only ones who could use summer more effectively. Principals should keep in touch with staff over the summer to ensure that fall return is as smooth as possible. “6 Tips to Engage Your Staff During the Summer” features useful tips for getting the most out of your staff over the summer months. Read the full article here.

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