Summer bridge programs should provide both academic and emotional support for students entering high school. However, before the program launches, schools must first assess the students entering the program to identify students most at risk of dropping out, or who may be struggling emotionally, socially, and academically.
A bridge program can provide students with a way to bond with each other, meet upperclassman who may assist with the program, experience fewer discipline problems, and increase their self-esteem. 1. Bridge the Academic Gap Summer bridge programs should provide both academic and emotional support for students entering high school.
Within this system, districts can implement summer programs that “bridge” the gap between the end of eighth grade and start of ninth grade to help students have a smoother transition to high school.
Building a Grad Nation (2012) identifies transition years (especially grades 8 to 10) as critical points in a child’s life when additional supports are needed if students are to remain on a path towards high school graduation. Disconnected students are significantly more likely to drop out of school.
Yes! Summer Bridge programs which are designed well and based upon the actual needs and interests of students are highly attended. Summer Bridge is not summer school with a new name. So, the key is in the programming. If the programming is active and engaging then kids will not only come to the program, they will love it.
There are as many designs as there are schools. Every program should be different and developed to meet the specific needs of the school and students. Here are a few examples of different types of summer bridge programs.
Summer Bridge doesn’t have to be expensive to be successful. Many schools set aside federal Title funds to help offset staffing costs. Volunteers from the community and upperclassmen can also participate to keep costs down.
Bridge programs are designed to improve the preparation and ease the transition into college in the fall. Students who attend, often students who are at risk or in need of remedial classes, may have a reduced need for developmental classes during their first semester of college.
Most programs create small cohorts of students to give them an opportunity to make connections and to bond with other students. Students are also given an opportunity to develop relationships on campus with mentors, advisors, members of the support community and others who may help them during the academic year.
Complete 6 units of UC Merced online summer courses, providing you a head start on your major and general education requirements. Summer courses include:
Understand the requirements and expectations of being a student at a research institution and learn about resources availble to support your success, including:
Build connections with other students, faculty and staff members through activities intended to introduce you to the expectations and opportunities available to you at UC Merced.
Summer bridge programs may also inspire students to stay in school instead of dropping out and to take advanced placement courses later in their high school careers . In addition, summer bridge programs can help students who are nervous to enter high school feel more confident in the transition.
Beyond helping students feel academically prepared for high school, bridge programs can also help students learn social-emotional skills, identify personal behaviors that may affect their success in high school, and identify and reflect on their goals for the future.
1. Bridge the Academic Gap#N#Summer bridge programs should provide both academic and emotional support for students entering high school. However, before the program launches, schools must first assess the students entering the program to identify students most at risk of dropping out, or who may be struggling emotionally, socially, and academically. These results should be shared with educators and other administrators of the program so at-risk students receive personalized support that can help them to better adjust.#N#Courses and learning experiences should be taught by experienced, skilled, and qualified teachers— ideally, the same teachers who will instruct bridge program students when they enter grade nine. Teachers should present an intensive academic focus on the foundational reading, writing, math, and academic skills, with the academic curriculum based on clear learning goals and expectations that align with grade nine courses and standards. In addition, the curriculum should include orientation activities for both students and families, assistance with study skills and organizational habits, and proactive postsecondary-planning guidance so that families can continue to support students throughout high school.