Norfolk Public Schools unveil comprehensive summer programs for student recovery and advancement

Norfolk City Public Schools is gearing up for an ambitious summer learning program aimed at helping students recover from academic setbacks and prepare for future challenges. During a recent School Board Work Session, officials outlined a comprehensive array of free summer offerings designed to support students across various needs.

Key highlights include the Summer STARS program, which provides remediation for students who struggled during the school year, allowing them to retake courses in a condensed format. Additionally, high school students can enroll in virtual courses at no cost through Virtual Virginia, enabling them to earn initial credits or recover lost ones. The program also features advanced placement summer academies to prepare students for rigorous AP classes.

In a significant move to enhance accessibility, the district will continue to provide devices and internet access for students who need them, ensuring that all participants can engage fully in online learning. This initiative builds on the resources acquired during the COVID-19 pandemic, with around 3,000 MiFi devices still available for activation.

Data from last summer's programs shows promising results, with over half of the students in summer school improving their reading scores and more than a third showing gains in mathematics. These outcomes reflect a commitment to addressing learning loss and supporting students' academic journeys.

The district's partnership with United Way and the implementation of 21st Century Learning Grants further enrich the summer experience, offering additional learning activities for students in various schools. As the application process for these programs has recently closed, the district is optimistic about the upcoming summer session and its potential to foster student success.