How to Take a “Both And” Approach to SEL and Academics This Summer

Check out this article from PanoramaEd.com about how to integrate SEL and academic content into summer learning programs. Suggestions include promoting student voice and choice – for instance, by seeking student input on learning goals or prioritizing project-based learning – as well as using trauma-informed instructional techniques and incorporating SEL objectives for class units.  

The 14 Dimensions of School Climate Measured by the CSCI

The National School Climate Center has a checklist of 14 indicators that they assess to determine how a school or district is promoting positive community interactions, respect for diversity, and student safety and physical and mental health. Compare summer learning plans against the checklist and identify opportunities to develop norms and practices for student and community wellbeing.  

Summer Learning Recruitment Guide

Use the Summer Learning Recruitment Guide from the Wallace Foundation to learn from five school districts how to launch a summer learning recruitment effort, develop a recruitment planning timeline, and create your recruitment game plan. 

NSLA: Summer Learning Week Outreach Toolkit

In 2020, the National Summer Learning Association (NLSA) developed a National Summer Learning Week Toolkit to increase participation in and support for summer learning programs. These include letters and social media campaigns. Review the toolkit for key messages, calls to action for community partners, stakeholders, and templates that you can use to tailor communications for your district. 

NIET: Summer Learning Planning Guide

The National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET) has a Summer Learning Planning Guide that helps educators prepare to work with students and families/caregivers. See page 9 for a breakdown of communications considerations by stakeholder groups (i.e., teachers, families, students). 

TNTP: Planning for Summer School in 2021

Page 7 of this planning resource from TNTP is a list of questions to consider when determining which students to prioritize. You will also find a list of considerations when choosing a summer learning model, including: what students know and have yet to master, how teams will track progress, and instructional capacity needed. 

Summer Learning Toolkit: Planning & Management

The Wallace Foundation has curated a wealth of resources to support districts in their summer planning processes, partnering with thought leaders and practitioners to develop more than 50 evidence-based tools and resources. Review their Planning and Management toolkit, which includes:  The Summer Planning Calendar, with sections devoted to management, continuous improvement, recruitment, curriculum, and other key areas   The …

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