As we have done since 2015, this year Kids’ Club again provided grant funding for the Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns’ Summer Literacy program, the goal of which is to reinforce and support literacy competency for rising first, second and third graders.
TUFSD K-2 Staff Developer Kristie Martinez oversaw this well-regarded program, which was comprised of nine in-person classes and one remote class. She and the rest of the staff (9 regular classroom teachers, 1 virtual classroom teacher, 6 teaching assistants and 2.5 reading specialists) kept the students engaged and motivated as they worked on reading and writing skills that often wane over the summer. In fact, data shows that many students lose two reading levels over the summer, but students in this program do not. Assessments are done on the students pre and post program to monitor the program’s success.
The program ran at W.L. Morse School from 9-12 each day for two weeks in the latter part of August. Enrollment grew again this year, allowing over 150 students to participate, up from 100 students in 2020. Students were selected based on teacher recommendations in Spring ’21. Teachers worked in small groups or 1 on 1, if needed. Snacks and an outdoor break were provided each day.
In addition to Kids’ Club, this program was supported by the Foundation and by federal funding, which provided much of the reading materials and books.