NSLA: Making the Most of Summer 2021 to Boost Learning

Aaron Dworkin, CEO of the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA), led a discussion of leaders from award-winning summer learning programs and program culture experts, including Alec Lee, Executive Director and CoFounder, Aim High; Brodrick Clarke, Director of Technical Training, NSLA; Liz McChesney, Former Director of Citywide Children’s Services at Chicago Public Library; and Eduardo Caballero, Executive Director and CoFounder, Camp EDMO. These experienced practitioners discussed their effective models and how they pivoted last summer to provide virtual and at-home programming in literacy, STEM, social and emotional learning (SEL) and more. Panelists also shared their experience and tips for scenario planning for summer 2021, considering various setting options. Presenters urged webinar participants to begin planning now and to maximize time to boost learning. 

After opening with an overview of NSLA’s multiple initiatives to advance summer learning and support field growth, Dworkin reviewed recent research on learning loss and the suggestions for what educators and decision-makers can do to best support recovery and accelerate learning. Lee built on these ideas and shared background on Aim High’s work to nurture, prepare and inspire students, explaining how they integrate SEL throughout their STEM and literacy activities to improve academic engagement while helping students cope with the trauma induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Creating an inviting and safe program culture is key to social and emotional learning. While discussing this important component, Clarke demonstrated how to build a positive ethos in both virtual and in-person settings to advance academic and developmental skill building. 

McChesney expanded on the fact that summer learning took on many forms in 2020, including some in person, some online and some at home, adding that there are still many questions about what will be possible in summer 2021. She then shared how public libraries have been able to adapt and ensure that learning can happen anywhere. She discussed the program she led at the Chicago Public Library in partnership with the Museum of Science and Industry and emphasized the importance of building trusting relationships with children and families as a foundation for keeping learning alive during this time of extended anxiety. Caballero discussed how programs can continue to accelerate learning during uncertain times through careful scenario planning that keeps core program goals and the needs of children and families at the center. His program, Camp EDMO in northern California was able to pivot in summer 2020 and will continue to boost learning in summer 2021 in creative ways thanks to strong partnerships with school districts, public housing and local nonprofit organizations.