Chesapeake Public Schools outlines Summer Learning 2026 to boost reading and recovery

Chesapeake Public Schools presented a multi-track Summer Learning 2026 program intended to accelerate learning, support literacy and provide enrichment and career-technical opportunities across grade levels. Director of Academic Support Kimberly McGrath told the Board the program will offer elementary sessions (June 29'July 30, Monday'Thursday), middle-school two nine-day sessions at selected sites, and a combination of in-person and virtual high-school options for initial credit and credit recovery.

Mrs. McGrath said the district's summer work focuses on reading and targeted instruction for English learners and students with disabilities: "We are pleased to provide a glimpse into the upcoming summer educational endeavor tailored for approximately 3,500 of our students," she said, and noted prior summer sessions served more than 4,100 students across Pre-K'12 in earlier years. The elementary program will staff two reading specialists per site and include CTE exposure for rising fifth-graders. Middle school sites will provide two reading specialists and CTE Academy enrichment; high school options include Chesapeake Virtual Academy courses with a $300 fee (reduced for eligible students) and in-person SOL Quick Review for end-of-course testing.

Board members asked about how sites are selected; Mrs. McGrath said site choice is based on school leadership and School Plants considerations, including ongoing projects and prior site rotation, with an effort to spread opportunity across the district. The Board had no additional questions and accepted the presentation.