2-5 years Summer Social Emotional Learning Program

Research shows that high-quality social-emotional summer school programs can reduce the access gap to preschool during the summer months, and improve students’ academic performance and interest in school, these programs are often inaccessible to many African American families. Cost, limited availability, and a lack of culturally-relevant programs also prevent Black youths from participating in and benefiting from afterschool programs. Transportation issues and a lack of information about available programs also bar children from enrolling.

Thanks to Washington County’s Social-Emotional Learning grant and Fighting for Success Foundation, Education Explorers’ Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) program will address the gaps in access to summer preschool and culturally relevant behavioral health resources, which were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program aligns with the ODE’s priority to strengthen high-quality, culturally sustaining, and revitalizing instruction, leadership, and programming by delivering a social and emotional curriculum rooted in anti-racism and connecting Black students to racially, culturally, and ethnically matched educators.

Eligibility

  • Washington County resident

  • From a historically marginalized ethnic community.

  • Between 2 years - 5 years

Prioritized students

  • Identify as Black/African/African American

  • Students at high risk of social exclusion due to linguistic or socioeconomic factors

  • Students with high-risk factors for exclusionary performance, including poor academic performance, prior suspension, and behavioral diagnosis.

Parent requirements

  • Attend a Parent orientation prior to enrollment

  • Attend a Parent Social Emotional Workshop in July and August

  • Volunteer one hour a month in the program

  • Complete one online Social-Emotional for Adults learning module each week.

  • Complete the weekly Social-Emotional learning activity sent home weekly with your child.