Local Boys & Girls Clubs tout summer learning success

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northern Indiana Corridor (BGCNIC) announced the outcomes of its Summer Learning Labs program, which delivered remarkable academic gains for over 2,500 children across Northern Indiana.

In partnership with area school districts, the five-week Summer Learning Labs program provided free, grade-level accelerated instruction in English Language Arts (ELA) and math for students entering grades 1-8.

Students participating in the program across Cass, St. Joseph, Pulaski, Fulton and White counties demonstrated remarkable academic gains, including a 26-percentage point improvement in ELA proficiency, matching statewide results.

BGCNIC's program also saw a 20-percentage point increase in math, closely following the state's 24-percentage point improvement.

"These results are more than just numbers – they're proof of how high-quality summer learning can bridge achievement gaps and unlock the incredible potential of our community's kids," said Jacqueline Kronk, Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northern Indiana Corridor. "Our students not only gained critical skills in English Language Arts and math but also grew in confidence and resilience through this transformative program."

The Summer Learning Labs were part of a broader statewide initiative by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE), which collectively served nearly 9,000 students across 19 locations. BGCNIC hired certified teachers to facilitate the curriculum and serve a diverse population of students in need of academic support.

"The success of our summer program speaks to the essential role that the Boys & Girls Clubs and similar out-of-school time providers play in supporting student achievement," said Kronk. "As public discussions continue around these important educational initiatives, we urge communities and policymakers to maintain their investment in programs that expand access to transformative learning opportunities for all young people."

These results take on added significance in light of Indiana's new legislation around early literacy. Senate Bill 369 mandates that all third-graders who do not pass the IREAD assessment must receive additional support to achieve grade-level proficiency before advancing.

The BGCNIC Summer Learning Labs program offers a proven solution to help students meet this critical benchmark by focusing on high-quality academic enrichment in a supportive environment.