Pittsburgh City Council Declares National Summer Learning Day with APOST Recognition

Pittsburgh City Council has officially declared July 16, 2025, as National Summer Learning Day, emphasizing the importance of summer educational programs for youth in the city. This resolution, passed during the council's regular meeting on July 15, aims to highlight the critical role that summer learning plays in preventing academic setbacks among students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.

The initiative is part of a broader campaign organized by the National Summer Learning Association, which runs from July 14 to 18. Local organizations, including Allegheny Partners for Out of School Time (APOST) and Bridge to Learn, will celebrate this day by showcasing their summer programs at events in Sheridan and Carnegie. These programs are designed to provide safe and enriching environments for children, helping them to develop academically, socially, and emotionally during the summer months.

Council members recognized that over half of students in the United States face summer learning losses, with many losing nearly 40% of their academic gains over the school year. By collaborating with local providers, APOST aims to expand access to high-quality summer learning opportunities, ensuring that all youth in the region can thrive.

Karen Dreyer, Executive Director of APOST, expressed gratitude for the council's support, emphasizing the need for safe spaces where children can learn and grow while their families are occupied with work and home responsibilities. The council's resolution not only acknowledges the importance of these programs but also reinforces the commitment to providing valuable educational experiences for Pittsburgh's youth during the summer.