Virtual Summer Learning Program a Success

Virtual Summer Learning Program a Success
Posted on 09/16/2020
Virtual Summer Learning Program a SuccessChild looking at notes on clipboard

The Kenora Catholic District School Board’s 2020 Summer Learning Program was a success, according to principal Hilary Aitken. Over 60 students actively took part in the 3-week program, which ran virtually.

“The Ministry decided fairly early on that they were going to go completely virtual for the summer learning. There was talk of doing some hybrid models but there was just too much uncertainty, so theyChild works on science experiment decided to go completely virtual.” Aiken explained, “Kids had already had lots of virtual learning experience form March to June, so we weren’t sure how it would be received but we were determined to make it work.”

The theme of the 2020 Summer Learning Program was Keep the Learning Going, and it featured 2 primary classes and 2 junior classes. Both primary classes were K-2 with one being a French immersion class, while one junior class was Grades 3-5 and the other was Grades 6-8.

Aiken said they originally only had funds for 2 classes.

“The ministry offered some extra funding for Grades 6 through 8, so we were about to offer an extra 6-8 class, and the board wanted to support a French immersion class as well, so we were able to offer a French immersion K-2 class. So that was exciting,” She explained.
The learning that took place was synchronous and asynchronous.
“There were some pretty phenomenal things that were happening, and the learning was amazing. I was so excited to see all the student engagement that was going on,” Aitken said.

The KCDSB 2020 Summer Learning Program was also able to partner with Science North and offer students a variety of science-based lessons, including coding.

“The Science North partnership was great, and really well received. There were live experiments that took place every Friday, weekly the kids had Ask a Scientist question and answer periods….and there were group activities. It was really well received…it was an amazing experience,” Aitken said of the partnership.

Teachers also delivered packages to each student before the start of Completed science experimentthe program which included school library books, and materials for non virtual lessons.

Each student received a report card which was also provided to their home room teacher.

Aitken explained what each student received in terms of feedback.
“All the students who participated consistently ended with a summer learning report card. Of course, it wasn’t a full-on report card, but it gave the students and parents a good idea of what was worked on, what went really well and some next steps as well.”

Aitken said overall the feedback they received from students and families was positive.

“We had some parents comment how their children really excelled with all the synchronous learning, the feedback they received from their teachers, it was a really good experience. It was not ideal for a summer learning program, but we definitely made the best of it. I’m super proud of all of the teachers and support staff, as well as all of the students who participated. It was a busy but great 3 weeks,” she said.

Parents are contacted during the school year and invited to sign up their child for the program to continue their learning during the summer months. This is the first year the program took place virtually.
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