Today, I wanted to bring attention to our extended school year (ESY), Summer Academy, for students in grades 2-12, and Summer Enrichment programs. Last year, we successfully provided a meaningful extended school year experience for our students. For students with exceptionalities, having extra time to learn, engage, process, and cement learning is incredibly important to continue progress toward their goals and for long-term academic achievement. Along with an array of core subjects, our students are so fortunate to have Orton Gillingham and related services available to them during ESY. Some of our students will take part in ESY as a component of their IEP, but for other students the decision to attend is made by our parents. ESY is particularly important to relearn skills and prevent skill loss, sometimes called “summer slide.”  For students who struggle with working memory, who benefit from continual reinforcement, or who are on the cusp of mastering a critical skill, participating in ESY, provides the necessary support, services, and specialized instruction to continue to grow as learners.  Similar to the regular school year at The Craig School, the “one size fits all” model of education does not apply, rather the individual student and their learning needs are at the center of decisions regarding their specific summer educational program. 

Our afternoon and all-day Friday program, Summer Enrichment, which is suited for students in grades 2-8, is similar to camp, with activities including, but not limited to, art, sports, outdoor activities, STEM, swimming, movie making, and gardening. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 mandates, last summer we were unable to provide our very popular Summer Enrichment program.  We are happy to have that program return and welcome our students to join us as we build on their strengths and foster community. The enrichment program provides opportunities to build a student’s self-esteem, to uncover strengths and interests students may not have known they have, to improve social skills, and most importantly, to have fun with other youth in a healthy and positive setting.  Camp-like programs for students with exceptionalities, like our Summer Enrichment program, provide an opportunity for independence, increased confidence, and the camaraderie of other youth that share similarities with one another. 

The Craig School’s extended school year, Summer Academy, grades 2-12, and Summer Enrichment program, grades 2-8, are offered on campus, July 6th - July 29th and July 6th - July 30th, respectively. Give Nicole Moon, Director of Admission, a call (973) 334-1285 ext. 212 or drop her an email to sign up today.  We are committed to creating a full educational and fun summer experience for your student.