Bloom Summer Program Gives Incoming Freshmen a Smooth Transition

Bloom High School offered a summer bridge program to incoming freshmen students with an emphasis on reading and writing.

The program includes two components—REFS (Reading Ensures Future Success) and RAMP (Reaching Algebra Math Program)—and offers activities and lessons designed to increase the skill level of students as they transition from middle school to high school.

“This is a pivotal moment in every student’s journey, the transition from middle school to high school,” said Bloom 206 Superintendent Lenell Navarre. “This program is meant to ease that journey and provide our incoming freshmen with the support they need to be successful.”

One hundred twenty students attended the three-week program from noon to 4 PM, Monday through Thursday. Certified teachers and staff from District 206 provided reading and writing instruction and facilitated team building activities. On the final day of the program, students attended a fieldtrip to Barnes and Noble where they could purchase a book of their choice.

The incoming students were able to meet Bloom Principal Scott Savage during a tour of the library highlighting resources that will support their learning during the school year. “Research often suggest that the middle and high school transition can be challenging,” Savage said, “but with the proper amount of early interventions and support, students can find academic success in their freshmen year.”

In addition to REFS and RAMP, twenty sophomore students are taking Honors Geometry during the summer. The Honors Geometry class provides a high level of rigorous instruction and activities that will prepare students for the next level of math courses. Students who successfully complete the Honors Geometry summer session will earn a full math credit and will be enrolled in Honors Pre-Calculus for the 2018-19 school year.