By Staff Reports
(HONOLULU)—Summer Brain Drain, Summer Slide, Summer Learning Loss: Though it may be called different names, it all means the same thing. Research shows that most students score lower on the same standardized tests at the end of summer than they do at the beginning. Teachers report spending anywhere from four to six weeks re-teaching lessons that were forgotten throughout the summer. Studies show that students lose about two months of math skills as well as reading and spelling ability. Although summer school is an option for some, it is usually remedial and geared toward students who are not performing at grade level. However, there remain thousands of students in Honolulu who can benefit from staying engaged in high-quality intersession programs.
The Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii – Spalding Clubhouse Summer Intersession Programs offer great options for parents looking for ways to have their children experience Summer Brain Gain! In addition to keeping their minds active, the Spalding Clubhouse helps youth develop social skills and positive character traits, and of course stay physically active during those long summer days.
Longtime supporter of the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii, Retired Judge Michael Town, believes that “being a life-long learner requires ongoing encouragement and the Boys & Girls Club summer programs promote that value.”
With access to a 20,000 square foot facility that includes a gymnasium and field, computer lab, games room, kitchen, reading room, performing arts room, and craft space, kids in Honolulu have the chance to continue growing and learning during June and July. Program highlights include a Nook e-Reader program, Take it to the Stage: A Theater Production, digital media production, and summer sports leagues. Kids will enjoy adventures to Ho’omaluhia fish ponds, iTrampoline, Ice Palace and more. Plus, the free lunch program will keep kids full and energetic for those qualified for free and reduced lunch at school in the 2014-2015 year.
The staff team is composed of full-time permanent Youth Development Directors, as well as part-time Youth Development Specialists and Program Assistants. All staff members are required to have a high-school diploma and most have college experience. Group ratios are set at 15 students per adult leader. High school teens volunteer as junior leaders to provide additional support to the adult staff team.
Club Parent Tammy Bewley said, “I don’t know many places where my children don’t want to leave when I come to pick them up – I think that alone speaks for itself. For me, having a place where my children feel welcomed and dare I say, loved, it is such an amazing relief for a parent. For them to have a ‘second home’ to go to keeps them first and foremost out of trouble, but even more importantly provides great adventures through field trips, sports and countless activities at the Club. I am grateful every day for the Spalding Clubhouse – it is a lifesaver!!!”
The program runs from Monday, June 8th to Friday, July 24th for both elementary and middle school youth from 7:00am-6:00pm. The base rate of the 7-week program for youth ages 7-10 (entering grades 2-5) is $550 and $400 for youth entering grades 6-8. Week-by-week program registration is also accepted. Program availability is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
For more information, please visit the Spalding Clubhouse next to Washington Middle School or call 808-942-5111.
