LSES Summer Academy 2023: Supporting Our Youngest Learners!
We are excited to announce that Lincoln Street Elementary School (LSES) Summer Academy is in full swing! This three-week camp is specifically designed for incoming kindergarteners and 1st graders, aiming to provide them with a smooth transition into the structured setting of school.
LSES Summer Academy plays a vital role in helping students and families feel confident starting school, especially for students who have not had prior experience in preschool or other structured educational settings. LSES Summer Academy offers a nurturing environment where students can become familiar with the school schedule, routines, and expectations. It’s a wonderful opportunity for students to adapt to their new school environment, fostering confidence and a positive attitude towards learning.
During LSES Summer Academy, students will engage in light, skills-focused lessons to prepare them for the exciting journey ahead. They will have the opportunity to learn numbers, shapes, letters, colors, and other fundamental skills that will set the foundation for their academic journey. While the structure of LSES Summer Academy mirrors a school day, it maintains an atmosphere of fun and exploration.
This year, Greater Than is thrilled to partner with several community organizations, including PLAY.FIT.FUN, who will coordinate structured active lessons during recess time. These activities will encourage active play, help students make new friends, build confidence, and develop a love for physical movement. In addition, we have planned an exciting field trip to the Oregon Zoo, aligning perfectly with the LSES Summer Academy theme focused on forest animals of the Pacific Northwest.
Parents are encouraged to actively participate in LSES Summer Academy as volunteers and chaperones. Parent involvement during LSES Summer Academy also fosters ongoing parent engagement throughout the school year and their child’s educational journey.
LSES Summer Academy will culminate with an outdoor rally on the last day, celebrating the progress and achievements of our young learners. This promises to be a memorable event that brings together students, families, and our dedicated Greater Than staff.
Our commitment to promoting early education extends beyond LSES Summer Academy. Our staff and interns have been instrumental in spreading the word about kindergarten registration. In fact, our staff and interns went door-to-door, visiting 200-300 homes within the community, to inform families about kindergarten registration and LSES Summer Academy. Additionally, Greater Than actively participated in the Kinder Orientation Fair where our Greater Than Kinder Kits, complete with educational materials in English and Spanish, were distributed, providing families with tools to continue their learning journey at home.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our community partners and donors for making programs like LSES Summer Academy possible. Together, we are creating a nurturing and supportive environment for our youngest learners.