How Philly Schools Turn Summer into a Season of Opportunity
Programs across the city help students build skills, confidence, and momentum for the fall
Summer may signal a break from the traditional school year—but for many Philadelphia schools, it’s a season of opportunity. Across the city, teachers are using this time to spark new learning, helping students make academic gains, build confidence, and uncover new passions.
Research shows that schools offering robust summer programs can not only help students avoid the infamous ‘summer slide,’ but can actually make meaningful progress across grade levels and academic areas. From kindergarten readiness to career preparation, Philadelphia schools are using the summer months to prepare students for the start of the school year in the fall and set them up for long-term success.
Letisha Laws, the Deputy Chief of School Based Initiatives at Elevate 215, emphasized the importance of the programs boosting student academics, while also easing transition periods and sparking creativity.
“Summer programs are a critical extension of the school year that offer students a safe, supportive space where they can continue to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. When designed with intention, these programs do more than prevent summer slide; they nurture the whole child by blending rigorous academics with exposure to the arts, sports, and enrichment activities. Quality summer programming helps students stay engaged, develop new skillsets, and start the school year with enhanced confidence in their abilities.”
Below is a snapshot of the summer programs happening across the city:
Kindergarten Readiness
- To ease the transition into school, many schools offer kindergarten readiness camps that introduce students to foundational academic skills such as letter recognition and speech development. These camps also help students adjust socially by building friendships and confidence in a classroom setting—ensuring they feel prepared and excited to begin their first year of school.
- For example, students at Mastery Cleveland’s summer readiness camp began the program recognizing only a few letter sounds. By the end, many could identify the majority of them.
High School Readiness
- Rising 9th graders participate in orientation-style summer days where they tour their new school building, meet their teachers, and learn about high school expectations. These experiences help ease anxieties and promote a smooth academic and social transition.
- Starting high school can be overwhelming, but Simon Gratz High School is easing that transition with Bulldog Ready Days—a summer initiative led by Principal Erik “Zip” Zipay. This year, 270 incoming ninth graders and their families had the chance to explore the school, connect with school staff, and practice daily routines before the first day of class. By building familiarity and confidence, Bulldog Ready Days helps reduce anxiety and foster a sense of community before the school year begins.
Blending Academics with Summer Fun
- Many summer programs in Philadelphia take a holistic approach by combining academic support with engaging, hands-on experiences. Mornings often focus on core instruction, while afternoons are filled with creative and social activities that foster independence and imagination.
- As part of Mayor Cherelle Parker’s Extended Day / Extended Year Initiative, 150 students at Northwood Charter School participate in a full-day experience. The program offers academic enrichment along with wellness activities such as art, sports, and group play in a joyful and safe environment.
Nurturing Creative Expression
- Summer programs offer students opportunities to explore the arts, including dance, theater, and music, which encourages self-expression and confidence. These experiences spark students’ excitement for learning ahead of the school year.
- At Mastery Charter’s Thomas and Mann campuses, more than 100 students enrolled in the Mastermindz program participate in a curated schedule of artistic and wellness activities. “This program is about developing the whole child through dance, drama, music, health, and wellness,” said Mastermindz Executive Director Latasha Jones-Hairston.
While summer is typically a break from the classroom, schools across Philadelphia are using it as a time to accelerate student progress. Through innovative programming, educators are helping students prevent learning loss, deepen academic skills, and build momentum for the year ahead.
At Elevate 215, we believe these research-based strategies not only strengthen school communities, but also give students a meaningful head start. By reimagining summer as an opportunity—not just a break—we can ensure more young people return to school ready to learn, grow, and thrive.