Summer learning is a hot topic among educators, parents, and students.  Some parents are in favor of ensuring that their children continue with their studies, while other parents are adamant about their children needing and deserving a break from the rigors of school.

The Common Core State Standards are forcing change in our schools today.  The authors of the CCSS contend that in order for American-educated students to survive and thrive in the global economy of the 21st century,  they must be educated with higher levels of rigor and expectations.

The industrial-age school calendars by which we currently operate are being scrutinized by education reformers and experts.  It is becoming increasingly apparent that the expectations of the CCSS are very difficult to meet or exceed in the traditional 180 day school year. Additional learning time is needed.  Now, more than ever, we need parents as our partners to ensure that our children are prepared to flourish in a competitive global society.

Our policies and beliefs about homework and summer learning must be re-examined.  Students will need to read closely at home after school hours and during the summer months.  Homework will need to be purposeful and rigorous- not merely "busy-work" for our students to develop responsibility.  Parents- WE NEED YOU!  Please partner with us by carving out time for your children to engage in deep reading and complete worthwhile tasks that are designed to prepare your children for success.

For more information about the importance of summer learning, please go to http://www.teachercreatedmaterials.com/curriculum_files/pdfs/lakids/LAUSD_summer_learning_loss.pdf

Happy Summer Learning!