Before long, school will be out for the summer, but that doesn't mean the learning stops. Many courses are available for students of all ages throughout the summer months. From classes that help students catch up in their studies, as well as math and reading camps for younger students to adult classes in web, computer applications, and dance, the offerings are numerous and varied. This year, middle and high school students will find expanded offerings to assist in increased course requirements by the state.
Elementary schools
The Step-to-Success program will be offered for students in grades K-2 who did not meet promotion requirements and, for students in grades 3-5 who did not meet promotion requirements and did not pass one or more of the 2008 TAKS tests. The program will be offered on 21 elementary school cluster sites.
Middle Schools
Because of increased graduation requirements at the high school level, more courses will be offered during High School summer school to current 7th and 8th grade students.
"Students should also consider taking algebra and/or a foreign language while in middle school to free up opportunities to take other electives or required courses in high school," stated Brian Woods, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Administration.
Also, currently enrolled middle school students who may be retained or who have characteristics of dyslexia may enroll in the Step-to-Success extended year program (designed for students who failed two to three core-area classes.) STEP will be held at designated cluster sites. In addition, there are classes for 8th grade students who need assistance in mastering reading and/or math TAKS. You may contact your child's school for further information.
The STEP and TAKS summer school program will be offered at five cluster sites from June 9-July 3, Monday through Thursday. For location and additional information, go to NISD's summer school website.
High School
High school students may enroll in tuition-based summer school offered this year at O'Connor High School. Students who live in the District but attend private or parochial schools may register for NISD summer school courses and pay the same tuition as NISD students ($110 per semester or $220 for a full course.) Out-of-district students are charged $140 per semester or $280 for a full course.
High school students will find an expanded offering this year to help with the increased requirements of four years of math, science, social studies, and English in order to graduate. With all the courses students are required to take by state law, students have fewer opportunities to take electives or repeat failed courses and still graduate on time.
"We wanted to give students more opportunities to take some of their core courses during the summer, so that they might be able to fit more electives into their school year," Woods said.
Those with questions should talk to their home campus counseling department.
Adult & Community Education
Northside's Community Education Department will also offer summer enrichment programs for elementary students. Refer to the Community Education Course Catalogue for more detailed information on these programs at the Adult & Community Education website.
