Glenbard District 87 superintendent highlights positive impact of summer learning

Today's high school summer school is vastly different from what many of us knew years ago. In the past, relatively few students might be in summer school because they did not earn a passing grade in a class.

Today, more than 2,800 Glenbard District 87 high school students are enrolled in a variety of excellent summer courses.

Students are getting ahead on earning credits for graduation, getting ready for upcoming Advanced Placement courses, preparing for the college application process; easing the transition from middle school to high school and recovering credits from the past school year.

For many years, District 87 has committed to growing a summer school program that supports students in realizing their full potential and educational goals.

I am proud of our students, faculty and staff who share our commitment to continuous learning throughout the year.

Myriad options offered in summer

Each summer, Glenbard students have the opportunity to enroll in both credit and noncredit classes.

As an example of noncredit classes, we offer two week long bridge courses for our incoming ninth-grade students. Through these courses, our youngest students are exposed to some of the skills and content they will be learning; get an early peek into high school; and get acquainted with the adults who will support them in their journey.

These opportunities are critical to ensuring that students have a smooth transition into high school. Who among us wouldn't have appreciated that when we made the move from eighth grade to high school?

Over the years, we have also been intentional about growing programs for English learners that combine academics and language development enrichment in engaging ways that have a positive impact on students' achievement with an intense immersion in the English language.

Summer is a great time to work with English learners and focus on individual student needs; help students catch up; and prepare them for the upcoming school year.

We are also committed to hosting our Extended School Year program, which is designed to meet the unique educational needs of a diverse group of students.

Our extended school year program had a great turnout this summer, registering more than 120 students with special education needs.

Many thanks to the outstanding staff who creatively developed and implemented engaging instruction, which helps our students maintain their academic skills during the summer.

Summer program has lasting positive effect

Research shows that students' skills dip in the summer.

However, students who participate in our free summer program will be empowered to maintain and build upon their skills. Participation in our summer program will have a lasting positive effect on students' abilities and confidence. This is particularly key for incoming freshmen.

Our summer program is one of the many features that make District 87 the world-class educational institution families appreciate in our community.

This program would not be possible without families' support and the support of our faculty and staff.

We are proud of our students who are taking advantage of additional learning opportunities this summer and thankful to the adults who support them in their learning journey.

• David Larson is superintendent of Glenbard High School District 87.