Insights and Reflections on Planning and Implementing District-led Summer Programs

Research tells us that school district-led summer learning programs can play a vital role in supporting students academically and providing them with enriching activities they may not otherwise experience.

But how do they do it?

A forthcoming report draws from research conducted by Education Development Center, Inc. (EDC) and commissioned by The Wallace Foundation. Supporting Quality in Summer Learning: How Districts Plan, Develop, and Implement Programs sheds light on the complex array of policies, procedures, and resources that go into the design and operation of these programs. The report explores topics such as program focus and goals, community partnerships, professional development, family engagement, and funding streams.

During this webinar, researchers will share selected findings from the study, which draws on the perspectives of 92 professionals and policymakers—including representatives of districts, community partners and state agencies involved in summer learning, such as 21st Century Community Learning Centers. The study examined district strategies before, during, and emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic and offers perspective on how summer learning is evolving to meet shifting needs.

Representatives from two communities involved in the study will then reflect on how these findings connect with how they are approaching summer programming.