Thursday, May 31, 2018
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Tom McCarthy, DPI Communications Director, (608) 266-3559MADISON — The third annual Hot Summer Milwaukee initiative to increase enrollment and programming for all of the city’s students during the summer months kicked off today with local leaders gathering to lend their support for summer learning.
School and community leaders across sectors have come together to advance policies and practices that support increased opportunity. Last year, the Hot Summer Milwaukee initiative led to an overall 11 percent increase in enrollment of summer programming and a 28 percent increase at the high school level. Policy changes this year should provide additional momentum. Those include expanding summer school to independent charter schools, increasing transportation reimbursement for summer education, streamlining summer payments for choice schools, and a $1.4 million grant from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction for summer programs in Milwaukee Public Schools.
Following are statements from leaders involved with Hot Summer Milwaukee and its continued success.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Evers
“The city has put its collective effort behind connecting kids with summer learning opportunities and the success speaks for itself. I’m proud to be part of this work.”
Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele
“When school’s out, it’s all of our responsibility to connect families with fun and educational environments to keep kids safe, healthy, and growing. We’re proud to have Milwaukee County partner with the YMCA in hosting camps at three of our parks this summer.”
City of Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett
“All of our partners are focused on extending learning beyond the school year and creating a full day of things to do in safe and structured settings throughout the city, whether of elementary, middle, or high school age.”
Chief Academic Officer of Seton Catholic Schools William H. Hughes
“Summer school supports kids and families in making sure summer is productive and engaging. Plus, kids that complete Seton Catholic School summer programs learn more! The support of DPI and funding of summer schools can make the difference for kids year round. Summer school is part of the long term strategy of getting all our kids to high quality high schools.”
President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee Vincent Lyles
“We are so pleased to be a part of the HotSummerMKE effort. As Milwaukee Public Schools largest out-of-school-time and summer services partner, we were ecstatic to see double digit growth in MPS summer school enrollment last year. We expect to continue that positive trend in summer school attendance and stand ready to ensure that all summer school participants have safe and fun summer wraparound activities making this summer a positive and memorable experience for our youth and families.”
Milwaukee Public Schools Interim Superintendent Keith Posley
“Milwaukee Public Schools is proud to be a leader in offering educational and recreational programs to young people throughout the year. Our summer programs are rich with academic programs that help students catch up, keep up, and get ahead. Recreational activities include opportunities that grow young people’s minds and strengthen their bodies.”