Summer learning should always be fun! In July 2018, approximately 365 students from Kindergarten to Grade 8 enjoyed fun and engaging learning through the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board’s Summer Learning Program.
The program provides numeracy and literacy support to students, extending learning time and helping to increase student achievement.
“The RCCDSB summer school program is dynamic in nature, extending learning and closing gaps in the areas of literacy and numeracy for our students,” states Terrence (TJ) O’Grady, K-8 Summer Literacy and Numeracy Principal.
Activities included hands-on tasks and time for exploration and learning extension using the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math, (STEAM) model.
This year a portion of the Summer Learning Program funded through the Council of Ontario Directors of Education (CODE) took place in classrooms at Cathedral Elementary School in Pembroke, and St. Joseph’s High School in Renfrew. Each class had approximately 15 students.
“Our focus this year was on early mathematics (K–3). The teachers, Mrs. Lindsay Leech and Mrs. Chantelle Spence, used a variety of math games, manipulatives, and proven pedagogical strategies that help build the mathematical foundations for students,” shares Dave Noble, SEF and Summer CODE Project Principal.
Student progress was measured using Kathy Richardson’s Math Assessments and the Ministry-funded STAR testing.
However, it is not just about math, notes Noble. Students also take part in a healthy active living component during the Summer Learning Program. “During this week, students take part in several activities such as yoga, fitness, and physical education activities.”
Each day began with a prayer and many sites held theme and spirit days and invited community partners to provide additional learning opportunities for students.
Summer school sites included St. Mary’s OLGC, Deep River, St. Francis of Assisi, Petawawa, Cathedral, Pembroke, St. Andrew’s, Killaloe, St. Michael’s, Douglas, St. Joseph’s Catholic High, Renfrew, and St. John XXIII, Arnprior.
The Jag and Crusader Camps were also a huge success this year. Approximately 65 Grade 4 students participated at each camp, with Jag Camp running at St. Joseph’s High School in Renfrew July 3–6, and Crusader Camp taking place at Bishop Smith Catholic High School in Pembroke July 9–12. Both camps provided students with the opportunity to engage in activities in robotics and coding, visual arts, outdoor education and team building as well as indoor physical education and leadership.
“A special quality of these camps is that students are actively engaged in the activities at all times, and each day the kids were excited and enthusiastic to begin each new activity and adventure,” shares Rory Donohue, Summer Learning and Grade 4 Camp Principal.
At its conclusion, the RCCDSB Summer Learning Program 2018 received high marks from everyone involved.
“Our 2018 program was filled with rich and meaningful learning and our students and staff had a lot of fun along the way,” sums up O’Grady.
August 27, 2018
For further information, please contact:
Jaimie Perry, Director of Education
Renfrew County Catholic District School Board
499 Pembroke Street West
Pembroke, ON K8A 5P1
Phone: 613-735-1031 or 1-800-267-0191
