A school year marked by COVID-19 quarantines, virtual learning and increased absenteeism has resulted in a jump in the number of students in need of support.
In response, some school districts have expanded their summer school offerings to keep students engaged and help them catch up.
New London
Starting in July, the school system will offer all its students the opportunity to attend programs both in-person and virtual. It’s something that has never been done before and as of June 22, registration was at an all-time high of 640 students and growing.
The list of options and programs in New London is exhaustive – half-day, full day, half-week or full week options; small group and one-on-one counseling, tutoring and mentoring; high school credit recovery courses; supports for students to complete community service projects or compose resumes ; wellness events for staff; and engagement events for families.
About 60 people, more than half of them children, showed up last weekend for a puppet show, ice cream, face painting and art kit giveaways to mark the launch of Blake Memorial Library’s summer reading program, according to the puppet show’s.
With many COVID-19 restrictions being lifted at beaches in the region, a busy summer season is expected.
Local beach operators and officials are gearing up to welcome more visitors this summer and reopen some amenities, from amusement rides to concession stands. While many beaches are easing residency restrictions and stricter capacity limits put in place last summer, some restrictions remain in place and vary by beach.
Pre-season pass sales at Ocean Beach Park in New London have been brisk. People are anxious, park manager Dave Sugrue said.
City of Groton Mayor Keith Hedrick said he s looking forward to a return to normal at Eastern Point Beach.
The Connecticut State Department of Education is awarding grants to more than 200 summer programs statewide. The $8.6 million in funding, from the American Rescue Plan, will be distributed to 235 organizations in Connecticut. The goal is to expand high-quality summer enrichment programs for all students. According to the CSDE, the funding will serve over 96,000 students. “The hope is.