COLORADO SPRINGS — Rebounding from a rough year, Colorado Springs School District 11 (D11) is launching a program to help students get back on the right track after the pandemic. The Summer Bridge program will target kindergarten students through 12th grade who teachers believe may have fallen behind.

According to District 11, academic gaps have been a trend for students all over the country due to the pandemic, and Colorado Springs is no exception.

“Across the United States, we have seen trends in increased ‘D’s and ‘F’ rates and increased academic gaps,” said Devra Ashby, Chief Communications Officer for District 11.

That’s why District 11 is offering the Summer Bridge program targeting K – 12 students.

The programs will run from June 7th through July 2nd and will meet 5 days a week in person. It’s funded mostly by state and federal covid relief for school districts.

Students will be able to participate in core curriculum and STEM classes to pursue creative opportunities like art and theater and coding classes.

A grab-n-go breakfast and lunch will be given to each student as well.

But it’s not just the academics that these programs focus on; they’re catering to students feeling a lot of isolation and depression due to the pandemic.

“We have a big focus on social-emotional wellness because if you are feeling anything of that nature, it’s really hard to learn at a pace that you need to be learning. So there will also be a social-emotional component to the day in the summer bridging opportunities.”

If a student’s teacher believes they’ve fallen behind or could use the extra help, they could expect a tap on the shoulder, but it is voluntary if they want to enroll.

Most District 11 schools are expected to participate in this program except those undergoing maintenance on premisis.

Special circumstances will be considered on a case-by-case basis for those not asked to participate in this program. Parents can reach out to their school’s staff to ask more about this program.

You can also go to the Colorado Springs District 11 Summer Bridge program website for more information.