Think Together’s Summer Learning Programs combine academic instruction designed to prevent “summer learning loss” with enrichment activities and field trips that expand the students’ horizons.
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What Are Summer Learning Programs?
Think Together’s Summer Learning Programs go beyond traditional summer school by creating engaging and enriching experiences that prepare students for the upcoming academic year. These programs provide students with the opportunity to participate in dynamic group activities, develop teamwork skills through STEM-based challenges, and enhance their proficiency in English and math in fun and creative settings.
Students can explore new places and participate in enriching field trips that broaden their horizons. By combining academic reinforcement with creative and social learning opportunities, Think Summer ensures a well-rounded experience that supports both academic growth and personal development.
For a deeper look into how participants thrive in these programs, we invite you to explore how Think Together students excel.
The Science Behind Summer Learning Loss
Summer break often comes with a hidden challenge: the risk of academic regression. Research has consistently shown that students may lose up to two months of reading proficiency and between 25% to 30% of their school-year learning in math over the summer (Learner.com, Institute of Education Sciences). This phenomenon, commonly referred to as “summer learning loss,” is particularly pronounced among students from under-resourced communities who lack access to quality summer enrichment programs.
The consequences of summer learning loss extend beyond academics. This regression can widen achievement gaps, making it harder for students to catch up when the new school year begins. Over time, these compounded losses can significantly affect long-term academic performance, high school graduation rates, and college readiness.
Think Together’s Summer Learning Programs directly address these challenges by combining academic instruction with hands-on, engaging activities to create a supportive and stimulating learning environment. These programs provide opportunities for students to continue practicing core skills in English and math, ensuring they maintain and even advance their academic progress during the summer months.
For example, students participating in Think Together’s STEM-focused initiatives engage in challenges like designing robots using upcycled materials, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving while reinforcing mathematical concepts. Similarly, field trips to local cultural and scientific institutions not only reinforce learning but also provide opportunities for social and emotional growth, which are equally crucial for academic success.
How Our Summer Learning Programs Work
Our Summer Learning Programs are carefully crafted to provide students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Each program is designed to keep students motivated and excited about learning while building essential academic and life skills.
STEM-Based Challenges
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is a core component of Think Together’s Summer Learning Programs. Students engage in hands-on challenges that build problem-solving skills and encourage innovation. For example, in one program supported by PIMCO, students partnered with volunteers to construct robots using upcycled materials. This activity not only introduced engineering concepts but also emphasized teamwork and creativity, with each robot design reflecting the unique approach of each student team.
In another activity, students built small-scale wind turbines, learning about renewable energy and its applications. Challenges like these provide students with practical insights into real-world problems while reinforcing mathematical and scientific principles in an engaging way.
Creative Exploration
Enrichment activities, such as arts and music programs, give students the opportunity to express themselves while developing new skills. These activities also encourage collaboration and boost confidence, setting the stage for academic success.
Field Trips and New Experiences
Field trips form a vital part of the summer learning experience, offering students the chance to apply classroom concepts in real-world settings. For example, San Bernardino students visited the Inland Empire 66ers baseball stadium, where they participated in pre-game field practice with professional athletes. Such experiences teach teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, while also giving students a glimpse into the professional sports world.
Other field trips have included visits to local museums, nature reserves, and science centers, expanding students’ horizons and fostering curiosity about the world around them. These experiences create lasting memories while reinforcing classroom lessons in meaningful ways.
Community and Partnership Benefits
Think Together collaborates with school districts, charter schools, and other organizations to bring these programs to life. Through these partnerships, thousands of students have had access to meaningful summer experiences.
Each summer, our programs bring together fun, academics, and exploration to ensure that students return to school confident, curious, and ready to excel.
