Summer Program Helps Further Students' Learning

Third- through fifth-grade students in the English as a Second Language program in the Lindenhurst School District were part of a successful summer enrichment course. 

The classes gave students a stronger academic understanding and helped them prepare for the upcoming school year. Students developed and practiced vocabulary and concepts needed for achievement.

The program, hosted by Daniel Street Elementary School, offered three classes a day for three hours, focusing on math, science and social studies from Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, students enjoyed field trips to museums and planetariums.

For one of the in-class trips, students participated in the “Journeys into American Indian Territory” program. Students learned about Native American cultures from around the world, held American Indian artifacts and played games. Participants also sang, danced, listened to a story and played Native American games. They walked through a hands-on museum of material culture that included clothing, beadwork, quillwork, dolls and drums.

Parent workshops were held to increase knowledge in supporting children’s academic growth. Elementary teachers Dorothy Ferro and Kim Montana and middle school teacher Kathy Curren were instrumental in the success of the program. 

In addition, four student teachers from Queens College assisted. The program was supported with Title 3 grant money and organized by coordinator Lisa Carboy.