Nurturing Minds, Empowering Futures: The Summer Learning Enrichment Initiative in San Diego

By Its So San Diego – May 8, 2024

Summer vacations often pose challenges for educational continuity, especially for students from underserved communities. In a bid to bridge this gap and foster continuous learning, San Diego Unified School District and the San Diego Foundation (SDF) have once again joined forces, allocating a substantial $8 million to fuel the fourth installment of Level Up SD. This collaborative initiative, encompassing partnerships with nearly 50 local nonprofit organizations, aims to enrich the summer experiences of San Diego Unified students while tackling the phenomenon of summer learning loss.

Supporting Summer Learning:
Level Up SD isn’t merely about keeping students occupied during the break; it’s a deliberate effort to enhance their academic and personal growth. Dr. Lamont Jackson, Superintendent of San Diego Unified, emphasizes the significance of this program in providing students with diverse opportunities ranging from academic pursuits to artistic endeavors and athletic activities. Through data-backed insights, San Diego Unified underscores the efficacy of such programs in bolstering students’ proficiency in critical subjects like reading and math.

Equity and Opportunity:
Mark Stuart, President & CEO of SDF, underscores the importance of fostering equity in educational access. Beyond academic enrichment, Level Up SD acts as a lifeline for working parents by offering essential childcare support. This year’s program is laser-focused on serving priority students, including English learners, foster youth, and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring that the benefits of summer learning reach those who need it most.

A Diverse Array of Partners:
The backbone of Level Up SD lies in its collaboration with local nonprofits. From arts and sciences to sports and community service, the roster of partners reflects the program’s commitment to offering a holistic learning experience. With names like the Fleet Science Center, Girl Scouts San Diego, and the YMCA, students have access to a rich tapestry of educational opportunities tailored to their interests and aspirations.

Expanding Reach and Impact:
As the program enters its fourth year, Level Up SD continues to expand its reach. With an anticipated 10,000 students set to benefit from this year’s offerings, the program is poised to make an even greater impact on the San Diego Unified community. The strategic selection of sites ensures accessibility for priority students, further cementing Level Up SD’s role as a catalyst for educational equity.

Conclusion:
In the realm of education, every opportunity counts. Through Level Up SD, San Diego Unified and the San Diego Foundation are not just combating summer learning loss; they are nurturing a generation of engaged, empowered learners. As the program unfolds its fourth chapter, it reaffirms the power of collaboration in creating transformative educational experiences. With each summer, Level Up SD brings us one step closer to a future where every student has the tools and support they need to thrive.

About San Diego Unified School District: With a commitment to serving a diverse student population, San Diego Unified School District stands as a beacon of educational excellence in California. Learn more about their initiatives at sandiegounified.org.

About San Diego Foundation: Dedicated to building resilient communities and fostering equity, the San Diego Foundation is at the forefront of philanthropic endeavors in the region. Discover more about their impactful work at SDFoundation.org.

Level Up SD Nonprofit Partners 2024:

Contact Information:
For media inquiries regarding San Diego Unified:
Marisa Berumen, Communications Department
Phone: 619-847-6029
Email: [email protected]

For media inquiries regarding San Diego Foundation:
Lorena Nava Ruggero
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 619-814-1365

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