While many of our kids are enjoying a care-free summer, almost 200 students are participating in summer school at the Olympia Regional Learning Academy. Summer school primarily serves middle and high school students so they can retrieve credit, reinforce important skills, fill in gaps in learning and become better prepared for the next school year.
The middle school program works with students entering sixth through eighth grades with a focus on soft skills like self-esteem and study skills along with math, reading and language arts. This year, “attendance at summer school has been great,” said summer school administrator Jane Allaire.
For the second year in a row, the district is offering a special English Learner (EL) program. According to EL teacher Jill Johnson, it is “often difficult for English Learner students to get the credits they need in order to graduate within four years.” In this one summer school classroom, students can get help in many different subjects including Psychology, English Foundations, Health, and Pre-Algebra, according to paraeducator Aleda Johnson.
Summer school staff have been working hard to encourage a positive view of summer school. Allaire said there has been tremendous parent involvement this year and she added that “donations of morning treats from local organizations are helping to keep students motivated.”
We are proud of our students and staff for their continued efforts during these summer months. Your hard work and determination will pay off!