UNO and alphabet puzzles, word games and popsicles, brownies, and books… summertime Wednesdays have never been more fun! This summer, Jackson ES staff members left the classroom and headed into the community to help students fight the “summer slide.”
The idea to launch “Wednesday Summer Reading” started when kindergarten teachers Toni Berger and Kathy Julian, along with Title I parent involvement coordinator Mari Beth Cameron, were looking for an opportunity to partner with parents to help students continue literacy learning over the summer. Kim Merizalde, a parent outreach liaison, spoke with parents and found a spot for the group to meet in the neighborhood.
“We bring books and educational games to help with language skills, and work with the children to keep reading and reading strategies alive, skills our students have worked hard on all year,” says Ms. Berger.
Reading Recovery teachers Regina Thomas and Emily Carter and 2nd grade teacher Nancy Fitzgerald also helped with the logistics of the program and enthusiastically volunteered their time. As the summer progressed, “Wednesday Summer Reading” experienced an overwhelming show of support from other staff members and the local community. Ms. Berger estimates more than 30 volunteers have participated over the course of the summer.
Teachers often bring their own children to the educational event that draws 20 to 25 neighborhood children every week. Adults in the community also supported the program, providing tents to shield volunteers and children from the sun and heat, tables for games, and endless encouragement.
“This experience has been a community builder,” adds Ms. Berger. “It’s been so rewarding to further personal connections with our students and encourage their development of problem solving, thinking, and reading skills while school is out.”