Summer programming wrapped up last week and students who participated have the knowledge they need to begin school next month refreshed, invigorated and ready to tackle new challenges.
This was the first year that CMS sixth grade teacher Colleen Duff has overseen the Summer Learning Academy, which consisted of 60 middle school students.
“It was nice to see them through a different lens,” said Ms. Duff, who teaches sixth grade math and science.
Taking classes over the summer means things are slightly more relaxed than the rigors of the academic year. Lessons mix learning and fun and students who may have struggled during the school year gain the confidence to tackle the upcoming year.
Classes were focused on ELA and math; students reviewed last year’s skills and learned new skills for the upcoming year.
Three of the bigger projects included making bridges made out of popsicle sticks, designing roller coasters and learning video animation (students presented their projects to their peers last month).
There was also a focus on social emotional learning (SEL), with discussions centering on communication, body language and understanding different perspectives. Students used something they are familiar with – memes – to describe what they are feeling.
They also painted kindness rocks and created vision boards with positive affirmations that they placed in and around the building to welcome everyone when school begins.
“I hope students start to take ownership,” said Ms. Duff. “I want them to be proud of why they are here and appreciate learning.”
At the elementary level, there were 130 students from Abram Lansing, Harmony Hill and Van Schaick who participated in the Elementary Summer Success program.
Director Melissa Lowden described the program as “always upbeat” with enthusiastic teachers who were able to offer individualized attention to students.
She explained that each project/assignment was carefully tailored to meet students where they were at academically, but also designed to challenge their thinking and help them work together with their peers.
“Students were provided experiences such as project-based learning, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), and real life situations working in small teams, and individually to expand their knowledge of previously taught math, science, and ELA skills,” said Mrs. Lowden.
Since science was an area that many students were interested in, a few of the higher grade teachers tied it into their STEM projects.
The kids were also excited to enjoy theme days such as “Favorite Disney Day,” “Hats on Tuesday,” “Sunny Wednesday” and “Tie Dye Thursday,” which kept things fun.
Similar to the middle school students, a social worker also came in weekly to help reinforce the social/emotional aspects of learning and positive character traits.
With a couple of weeks to go before the start of the new school year, students are eager to start classes knowing they are prepared for what lies ahead.
“I hope that students are able to feel good about themselves as learners,” said Mrs. Lowden. “I want them to gain confidence in tackling tasks that they find challenging. All of the work and interaction with peers will definitely prepare them for the upcoming year.”