Summer school

The Marion School District is taking an assertive approach to addressing Covid-related learning loss over the past year with a vibrant summer school program, designed to give every student an opportunity to hone the skills they will need for the coming school year.

More than 200 students in grades K-12 are participating in the program, which is being held on the campuses of Marion Math, Science & Technology Magnet, Marion Junior High School, and Marion High School.

“Due to the extraordinary circumstances of last year, we have students who need to work on skills, particularly in math, reading, and language,” said Sandra Halley, the district’s director of curriculum, instruction, and professional development. “Our summer school program is designed to provide them concentrated time to work on these skills.”

Halley said the district is utilizing Edmentum Exact Path and Reading Horizons curriculums. Both of these programs are diagnostic and pinpoint the areas that need work and provide the lessons and practice needed.

Not only are students being provided with academic instruction, but each summer school participant also receives breakfast, lunch, and transportation to and from school.

“Paraprofessionals are leading the charge on helping our students in the classroom,” Halley said. “Each para has an assigned group that she will work with during the three-week period. The tasks of the paras include monitoring progress, ensuring that students are engaged, helping students when they have questions, and providing structure daily in the classroom.”

The district’s summer school program will continue through Friday, July 2.

Marion will kick off its regular school year on Monday, July 26. The district is implementing its new hybrid calendar for 2021-22, which will include 2-week breaks after every 9 weeks. Fall Break will run from Sept. 27-Oct. 10. Last month, the district announced that all instruction would be in-person in the 2021-22 school year.