Summer school strengthens skills

Summer Academy classes are currently underway at four Cedar Rapids Community School District elementary schools. Some 345 students are enrolled in the morning classes that meet Monday through Thursday and focus specifically on math and reading skills.

“Elementary Summer Academy students have to be referred by teachers to spend time this summer in small class settings working on math and reading skills,” explained Carla Riley, program coordinator and teacher. “This will allow them to be secure in these curriculum areas when classes resume in August.”

Classes are being held at Wilson, Harrison, Grant Wood, and Nixon elementary schools. District bussing is provided, with students boarding at their home school to travel to the summer site.

Additionally, the District's Special Services Department is providing summer programming for 135 students from preschool through grade 12.  These classes run alongside the Elementary Summer Academy.

“Students are working on core subject areas, as well as individual learning goals,” noted Dawn Embretson, Association Director of Special Services. “We have programming at six sites in addition to the four school buildings that are hosting the Elementary Summer Academy.”