As a community, we are all concerned about the impact of the
last year on our students. Research shows that the interruption to their
education has resulted in learning loss similar to what we see during the
summer, when students may read less and have fewer quality learning
experiences. Educational experts have identified this learning loss as the
"COVID Slide." Students can lose up to a month of academic learning
in a typical year over the summer months; the pandemic has lasted more than
eighteen months. We have our work cut out for us!
To combat this learning loss, keep our kids on track, and ensure families get the support they need to succeed, Stark Library, with the support of the Sisters of Charity, is partnering with Canton City School District to bring summer reading and learning to the Canton community with Summer Fun School! In addition to our usual methods of combating learning loss, like the Summer Challenge and early literacy programs, our Bookmobile will visit specific locations in Canton, providing books, activities, and summer activity kits to Canton City School kids from Kindergarten through 3rd grade. The activities are designed to build reading, math, and science skills. Families can track their progress to enter a weekly drawing for a gift card for necessities such as groceries or gas. Of course, it’s hard to learn on an empty stomach! Through a partnership with the Children’s Hunger Alliance, we will also be offering FREE Grab and Go meals at these Canton locations.
Our children are our greatest investment. We are so pleased
we can work with so many great organizations in our community to give them the
support they need to succeed.