| PlaySmart / LINK School Summer Academy During the summer of 2007, PlaySmart hosted its 4th Annual summer program at the LINK School in Newark , New Jersey . This summer program is a unique partnership between PlaySmart and the LINK School that utilizes the summer months to promote continued academic development during an important, and often neglected time, in a child’s life. The program is geared toward providing 7th and 8th grade children a fun, structured setting where they can continue to develop math and reading skills in a camp-like atmosphere. PlaySmart views the summer months as a critical time in a child’s development and feels that by providing an academic experience, with a sports theme, children can: 1) continue to develop important academic skills; 2) ensure the following academic school year is a successful one; 3) enjoy a fun, memorable, summer experience that builds confidence and self-esteem. The summer program has grown from 15 kids since its inception to 65 kids today (40 girls and 25 boys). Instruction and guidance is provided by six classroom teachers and five assistants who provide math instruction, writing, study skills and reading activities. The program also includes visits by local community leaders and mentors who serve as great role models and who share there life experiences and unique perspectives on success. This year’s program included Reggie Torbor, linebacker for the New York Giants, Carol Graham, wellness, fitness and health teacher, Doug Goulding, retired professional tennis player, Molly Tibias, Rutgers gymnast and Vaughn McKoy, a New Jersey-based lawyer and former Rutgers football player, to name a few. There is additional mentoring and guidance provided by various LINK School professionals who discuss academic success and personal development. According to LINK, students who are not fully engaged in enrichment activities can loose up to two grade levels over the summer months. This is particularly true for urban students. The PlaySmart / LINK School Summary Academy program attempts to prevent this from happening. The Academy has had a tremendous amount of success in addressing this potential deficiency. From a metrics standpoint, and based on pre and post-test results, Academy students’ math skills improved by approximately 25.5%, writing scores increased by 10% and overall reading scores increased by 20%. Additionally, students participating in the summer academy program have shown an increased interest in leadership positions during the academic school year, often participate in service projects within the community and exhibit core values in their school work and day to day habits. The PlaySmart / LINK School Academy has been a tremendously successful program that would not be possible without generous support from donors like you. PlaySmart would also like to thank the LINK School for their wonderful partnership that together is enriching the lives of young students. Click HERE to view the Thank You letter from the LINK School. |