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East Windsor summer-enrichment program used $210,000 grant to serve 96 students, board hears
Summary
District staff told the board a $210,000 summer-enrichment grant supported 96 students (82% attendance), added a coding curriculum and Lego-based STEM activities, provided swimming lessons and field trips, and returned several staff members from the prior year. Staff said they plan to reapply for funding next year (amount not specified).
Cheryl presented the East Windsor summer enrichment program to the board, saying the district secured a $210,000 grant this year to expand programming and support learning recovery. The program served 96 students with approximately 82% attendance and ran into mid-August.
Cheryl said the program upgraded its Lego curriculum and introduced a coding component so students could use school laptops alongside Lego hubs. Staffing included returning teachers (six of eight) and two returning paraprofessionals; the site director for the program was Pete Richard and nursing oversight was provided by Paula and Kirsten Walker. The program offered swimming lessons and three special presentations (Mad Science, Mystic Aquarium — a penguin presentation without live animals — and the Connecticut Science Center’s science-of-suds program).
Cheryl said student feedback showed academic and social benefits — parents reported that children “didn't lose their learning” over the summer and that students felt prepared for the next grade. Incentives and field trips included a visit to Nomads (arcade/bumper cars), a district carnival with large inflatables and a magic show, and other rotating activities.
Board members asked whether funding will continue next year. Cheryl and other staff said they were informed funding should be available but that the dollar amount had not been stated; the district intends to apply again and expects to be competitive based on participation levels, particularly from open-choice students.
The presentation noted staffing continuity and program improvements as key successes; board members praised the district for offering swimming lessons and broadening access for open-choice families.
