Urbana District #116 wrapped up several of our Extended Summer Learning Opportunities last week. All schools offered summer programming to promote learning renewal. This provides opportunities to intervene in areas where students need more support and also “jump start” the 2021-2022 school year.
“Camp Thomas Paine promoted inclusion, teamwork, leadership, and education inside and outside of the classroom,” said elementary teacher, Chelsey Baker.
Kindergarten and first grade students at Thomas Paine learned about Curious George through the University of Illinois PBS, explored Sola Gratia Farm and used fresh, natural ingredients from the garden to bake bread.
“There was never a dull moment at Thomas Paine!,” said Thomas Paine Summer Program Coordinator, Michelle Turner.
Over at Dr. Williams Elementary, Urbana School District’s Kindergarten Readiness Camp allowed incoming Kindergarten students to see and feel what it’s like to be a part of a Kindergarten classroom. The staff created fun, developmentally appropriate activities for learning letter names, counting, and social skills.
“My favorite part of the camp was seeing the students sing songs with teachers and gain confidence and independence walking to their classrooms,” said the Program Coordinator of the Kindergarten Readiness Camp, Andrea Jackson. “It’s amazing how quickly the students adapted to their new learning environments. The experience will help the students prepare for school in the fall.”
More than 600 kids participated in these programs across District buildings. COVID safety protocols were in place, which included masking and social distancing.
“This was such an enriching experience for the students and for me,” said elementary teacher, Kim Murphy. “We learned, we studied new things, and we played!”
“It’s a joy seeing students back at school learning and engaging with staff and other peers, Jackson said. “We’re already looking forward to the second summer session!”
