Strengthening Summer Enrichment Programs: A Possible Remedy

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 9:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: Systematic Analysis of Opportunities for Remedy and Repair in Out-of-School-Time Research (Table 3)

Abstract

Summer learning programs may remedy the social and emotional development losses students experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. A northeastern state undertook a multi-year grant program, awarding over $30 million to over 200 camps to address the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on students’ SEL needs. Researchers invited grant-recipient program leaders to participate in a camp summit to share practices and establish a network of summer learning professionals that did not exist prior to the summit. Our summit findings indicate a need and desire for continued systemic support for summer learning programs, including opportunities to discuss practices that deliver sound SEL programming, build strong partnerships with schools and community organizations, and promote social justice and equity throughout their program implementation.

Authors

• Kiah DeVona, University of Connecticut

• Kenya Marie Overton, University of Connecticut

• Charles Wentzell, University of Connecticut

• Casey D. Cobb, University of Connecticut