Think Summer! Keeps Kalamazoo Students Engaged and Inspired

This summer, more than 100 Kalamazoo Public Schools elementary students stayed engaged, active, and inspired through Communities In Schools of Kalamazoo’s Think Summer! program.

Designed to reduce summer learning loss while providing enriching experiences, the CIS summer program provided students with the opportunity to learn, explore, and connect in a supportive environment. Each day began with smiling faces arriving ready for fun, learning, and adventure. Students received breakfast, lunch, and snacks, participated in physical activity, enjoyed enrichment opportunities, and worked with the team and volunteers who continued tutoring and mentoring relationships from the school year.

“I believe Think Summer is a great opportunity for students to freshen up on their ELA and math skills while also getting the chance to interact with students outside of their school or neighborhood.” – Caroline, Youth Development Coach at Woodward School

This year’s STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) theme encouraged students to think creatively, solve problems, and explore new ideas through hands-on activities and engaging lessons.

Students also enjoyed field trips, including visits to the movie theater, bowling alley, and a local animal farm. These experiences provided opportunities to learn beyond the classroom while creating lasting summer memories.

Don’t Miss the Video!

Want to hear about Think Summer! from the students themselves? CIS team member Carlos interviewed a few students and asked them, “What was your favorite part of Think Summer?” Click on the image below to watch!

As another successful Think Summer! program comes to a close, CIS Kalamazoo is grateful for the support from staff, families, and community partners who helped make this summer a meaningful experience for every student. We can’t wait for next year!

“This program gives families not only a safe space for their student to continue their learning for the summer but also gives parents a piece of mind that their students are still interacting with other students and not just sitting in the house.” – Nicole, After School Coordinator at Northeastern Elementary School

CIS Think Summer! is supported by federal dollars awarded through the Michigan Department of Education, the 21st Century Community Learning Centers.