K-5 Summer Program Focuses on Literacy

Reading and writing are the focus of SOCSD’s K-5 Summer Literacy Program, which kicked off on Monday. 

“It helps students practice skills that they learned throughout the school year so that they’ll be stronger readers and writers in the fall,” explained Cottage Lane Elementary School fifth grade teacher Melanie Nunes, who is in her third consecutive summer with the program. “My group will be entering fourth grade in September, so it’s an opportunity to help these students build the skills I know that they’ll need.”

On Tuesday morning, Nunes’ rising fourth graders started out with a bit of grammar work before diving into a writing center activity of their choice. A few students chose to write a journal entry about a personal strength or challenge or tackle a "draw and write" activity about pineapples, but most opted to describe the flavor and powers of a magical ice cream flavor!

Coordinated by Instructional Literacy Coach (K-Gr. 5) Kristy Nadler, the District’s Summer Literacy Program features engaging educational activities focused on reading and writing. Each morning for two weeks, 145 participating students rotate through two 90-minute sessions led by 12 teachers and staff along with 20 Tappan Zee High School student volunteers.

“Summer literacy instruction for our students helps prevent learning loss, strengthens foundational skills and fosters a lifelong love of reading—ensuring every child returns to school ready to thrive!” Nadler noted.