It seems that summer school is no longer for the students who flunked classes or slacked off during the school year, but is now used voluntarily by students looking to get a head start on the school year.

In the Wauwatosa School District in Wisconsin, summer school enrollment has doubled since 2004, with 2,066 students taking summer classes. School officials say these students are getting their core classes, such as English, Math and Science, done over the summer to allow for more time during the school year to enroll in elective offerings and take advanced placement courses.

Other students are taking summer courses so they have more time during the school year to apply for internships, graduate early or begin attaining college credits.

Many colleges offer summer programs in specific subjects for incoming college freshman and high school students who are looking to get some supplemental learning or start earning college credits. The University of California San Diego offers a summer science program for high school students looking to sample some college courses.

This program, and others like it, aim to keep class size small and student to teacher ratios no higher than 12:1. This means more personalized attention for the student and a more in-depth learning environment. It prepares students for college courses and gives them a chance to learn more about subjects they are interested in.

Schools in Portland, Oregon saw a 20% increase in summer enrollment due to new requirements for graduation. Since more credits will be expected from students, many enrolled in summer classes to relieve stress during the school year and allow them time for extracurricular activities.

California is another state experiencing large jumps in summer enrollment, but not for the above reasons. Many students were unable to pass the California High School Exit Exam and must retake it in order to receive their diplomas. In the Sequoia School District alone, 170 seniors did not pass the exam.

Many of these programs are already in full swing or nearing completion. Additionally, many school districts have been forced to cut back on their summer programs in order to keep their budgets down. These cuts may cause damage to struggle students’ grades during the school year or increase dropout rates around the country.

Many students have turned to online programs and courses, as they cost less and are often more convenient. Online summer programs can be found on GlobalScholar for students looking to either get a head start on the school year or fill in the gaps of missing information resulting from a summer of fun.

Sign in to rate