Our Summer Bridge program and preschool summer camp are coming to an end, but what an enriching, energetic, and engaging summer it was for over 200 students! They were challenged to grow their skills in math, reading, and SEL (social emotional learning) and all while exploring individual interests by engaging in activities like roller skating, dance, robotics, and gardening. Check out the highlights from each of the schools below!
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School
Emphasizing the importance of English and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), each student at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School was given the book, “Holes” to read and discuss. They were then challenged to build a structure completely out of cardboard that had to be sturdy and wind resistant (tougher than it sounds!). Afternoon enrichment included unique programs like Drumming, Leadership, Comic Books, Arts/Sports, Gardening, and Video Production.
At summer’s end, each enrichment student group presented a project that represented the focus of their specific program. Outside the classroom, students traveled to BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville as well as the Statue of Liberty. These opportunities were especially important for our older students, to demonstrate the importance of cultural diversity and history within their own communities.
B.C. Gregory Elementary School
Gregory students relocated to Cadwalader Elementary as the site for their Summer Bridge program. Students embraced the theme, “The Leader is Me,” which emphasized individual leadership and accountability. Teachers kept the theme top-of-mind by challenging students to hone their skills in math and reading. Utilizing the Happy Numbers Program provided by Mercer Street Friends, students worked with interventionists to advance their math and reading skills (as well as their confidence!) in the classroom.
But this summer wasn’t just all work and no play – students participated in enrichment activities and field trips to complement the skills they learned in the classroom. Students took trips to the Trenton Thunder, Shady Brook Farm, and Rockville Climbing Center Inc., embracing the leadership skills they were taught throughout the summer!
Luis Muñoz-Rivera Elementary School
“Exploration” was the summer theme at Rivera Elementary. Teachers helped students identify and recognize what they bring to their community, emphasizing some of the most important parts of being a community are coming together, celebrating differences, and uplifting others. During the five-week Summer Bridge program, students received personalized education in math and reading, as well as SEL (social emotional learning) lessons from partners at Kid’s Bridge who introduced them to mindfulness and emotional awareness.
To wrap up the summer, drama students offered a special performance for parents, guardians, and classmates about the integration of schools in Trenton.
Mercer Street Friends Preschool
Our preschoolers enjoyed their very own six-week camp! Campers were greeted with a new theme each week including colors, cooking, and even a carnival! Students advanced their writing and literacy levels through engaging and repetitive activities that encourage gradual development. Each morning, campers had to “sign in” by practicing writing their name, before joining their small groups to work on reading and math lessons.
Imaginations ran wild through water play, cooking activities, and music… and it wouldn’t be summer without homemade lemonade, courtesy of our aspiring little chefs!
