'Rising Stars' Shines a Light on Learning Through the Summer

Selected South Orange-Maplewood School District students in kindergarten through second grade are enjoying the Rising Stars summer program held at Seth Boyden and Clinton elementary schools. As explained in a release from the school district, Rising Stars is "One of the many enrichment and supplemental summer programs for all ages sponsored by the South Orange-Maplewood School District. Rising Stars is a rich, academic learning experience designed to support and accelerate core subject learning."

When we spoke to Judith Levy, communications director at the School District, it became clear that the program is meant to provide an academic bridge through the summer for students who need some extra support. Levy explained that the students selected are those "likely to improve significantly with a few weeks of additional instruction, curriculum review and skills reinforcement."

Levy added, "Students are selected baesd on progress reports, district assessments, standardized tests and teacher recommendations." The program is offered district-wide and is free.

While the program is meant to reinforce academics, it is a summer program that mixes in recreation and presents the material as "fun." Levy said each week has a special theme such as art or music.

The Rising Stars program is a half-day program that runs Monday through Fridays, June 21 through July 16.