Planning and Expanding Summer Programs Part 1- Don’t Let Students Fall Behind: How to Select and Invite Families to Summer Programs

By Dr. Sherri Lorton

For school administrators, summer programs offer a vital opportunity to support students who need additional academic help, enrichment opportunities, or credit recovery. Whether launching a new program or expanding an existing one, careful planning and coordination across multiple departments are essential for success. This guide provides key strategies for selecting students, reaching families, ensuring equitable access, and promoting optional programs.

Identifying the Right Students for Summer School 
A strong summer program begins with a clear understanding of who should attend and what is offered. Consider these student groups:

Elementary Students

• Identify students who need extra support in reading, writing, and math. 
• Use assessments, teacher recommendations, and report cards to determine eligibility. 
• Collaborate with reading specialists, interventionists, and teachers of English Language Learners to ensure students with the greatest needs receive invitations.

Middle School Students

• Target students struggling in language arts and math. 
• Partner teachers, counselors, and other staff who know students best to ensure appropriate referrals.
• Consider benchmark assessments to identify skill gaps.

High School Students

• Prioritize students who fail a class and need summer credits to stay on track for graduation.
• Provide clear communication to families on available course options and expectations.
• Help students and parents understand the importance of credit recovery.

Identifying the right students for summer programs ensures that support reaches those who need it most. By using data-driven assessments, teacher input, and targeted outreach, schools can create equitable opportunities for academic growth. A well-structured selection process strengthens student outcomes and maximizes the program’s overall impact. Creating engaging content and success stories from past participants is a great way to spark interest and encourage program enrollment.

Promoting Optional Programs and Enrichment Opportunities

In addition to academic support, summer programs can provide enriching and engaging experiences. Consider implementing free or low-cost summer camps that boost learning while reinforcing academic and social skills. Promote these programs as fun and engaging while integrating learning elements where possible. Encourage high school students to seek opportunities to earn additional credits or explore new subjects, working with guidance counselors to promote these as a way to accelerate learning or explore career pathways. 

If your camps or advanced coursework has limited spots, consider these selection strategies:

• Application Process: Allow interested families to apply, using a fair selection process such as a lottery system when demand exceeds availability.
• Academic Interest & Readiness: Determine if students demonstrate enthusiasm or preparation for enrichment courses. Teachers can help identify students who would benefit from advanced coursework.
• Equity Considerations: Ensure students from diverse backgrounds, including ELL and underserved communities, have access. 

To maximize participation, promote these programs effectively. Share success stories, leverage social media, and collaborate with community organizations to spread the word.

Communicating with Families

Effective communication is crucial to ensuring all families, including those busy or facing language barriers, are informed and engaged. Use a multi-faceted approach:

• Multilingual Communication: Provide materials in multiple languages, utilizing district translators or community liaisons as needed.
• Personal Outreach: Engage families through phone calls, text messages, and direct outreach by teachers or counselors.
• Digital & Print Communication: Leverage social media, school websites, and email newsletters while also distributing paper flyers at school events, libraries, and community centers.
• Community Partnerships: Work with local organizations, churches, and after-school programs to extend outreach efforts and encourage participation. 

Taking the Next Step

Identifying the right students and engaging families lays the foundation for a strong summer program. In Part 2, we will explore planning logistics, staffing, and program expansion opportunities. For expert guidance on designing an effective summer program, contact Compass PD for tailored support.