The Summer Matters Campaign

Why Summer Matters:

Summer is more than just time off.

It’s a crucial opportunity for growth, learning, and connection. Without access to enriching summer programs, many students experience learning loss and unequal opportunities. Quality summer experiences help bridge that gap, keeping students inspired, curious, and prepared for success year-round.

• Summer slide erodes learning: both reading and math skills decline significantly, with math especially vulnerable.

• Loss compounds over time: small setbacks accumulate, leading to substantial academic lag by mid-elementary school.

• Cost remains a major hurdle: affordability continues to be the foremost reason low-income families can’t enroll children in summer programs.

• Inequitable access widens gaps: The stark difference in participation rates—38% vs. 67%—shows low-income children are systematically missing out on critical learning opportunities.