Rochester schools chief says summer school program did its job

Students in elementary school worked on building essential reading and math skills, followed by snack time and recess outside. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Rochester School's chief said on Friday he was pleased with the recently completed summer school program.

In the wake of challenges posed by more than a year of remote and hybrid learning, the district offered this program to provide targeted instruction, as well as additional educational experiences, allowing students to learn and grow during the summer, Superintendent Kyle Repucci said in a statement released on Friday.

The four-week program took place during the mornings from the week of July 12 through the week of Aug. 2. About 150 elementary school students, 85 middle school students and 125 high school students attended the program.

Students had the opportunity to spend time with familiar peers and make new friends.

Students in elementary school worked on building essential reading and math skills, followed by snack time and recess outside.

Middle school students focused on developing math, English language arts and social studies skills.

Students in Grade 8 developed skills to help them be successful in their Grade 9 math classes. Summer school teachers identified areas that Grade 9 students typically struggle with, including order of operations, fractions and coordinate graphing. Teachers planned various activities around these topics, including math games, digital activities worksheets and more.


Additionally, students in high school used the program as an opportunity to recover lost credits and stay on track to graduate. Classes were offered in social studies, science, English and math. The district offered two 90-minute classroom sessions each morning. Students were able to customize their schedules depending on the amount of credits they needed. Students used the online learning platform Edgenuity, paired with one-on-one time with a teacher, to discuss progress on activities, projects and assignments.

All students received a brown bag lunch provided by Community Action Partnership of Strafford County.

"We are so pleased to be have been able to offer this program to all of our students, ranging from our young kindergartners to our seasoned high schoolers," said Repucci. "This was a great way for them to socialize with one another while preparing for the coming school year. I would like to thank all the faculty and staff for their hard work in preparing and providing this valuable experience to our students."