Preventing Summer Learning Loss: What Teachers Can Do

The Summer Slide Is Real

Research shows students can lose 1-3 months of learning over summer, with the greatest losses in math and among low-income students. While you cannot control what happens in summer, you can prepare students and families before school ends.

Before Summer Break

Summer Reading Lists -- Provide age-appropriate book lists with a range of interests and reading levels. Include where to get free books (library, community programs).

Reading Challenges -- Create a summer reading challenge with a simple tracking sheet. Even without a reward, the structure motivates students.

Math Practice Packs -- Send home review materials covering the year's key skills. Include games and activities, not just worksheets.

Family Activity Guides -- Send home ideas for learning activities that do not feel like school: cooking (math), nature walks (science), journaling (writing), museum visits, and library programs.

During the Last Weeks of School

Consolidation, Not New Content -- Use the last 2-3 weeks to review and consolidate the year's most important skills. Spiral review is more valuable than one more new topic.

Teach Study Strategies -- Help students understand how to practice skills independently. "If you forget how to regroup, here is what to do..."

Build Habits, Not Just Skills -- Reading habits matter more than specific reading assignments. Help students see themselves as readers and learners.

For Schools and Districts

Summer Programs -- The most effective intervention is structured summer programming. Advocate for funded summer learning opportunities.

Library Partnerships -- Partner with public libraries for summer reading programs, bookmobile visits to underserved areas, and free programming.

Book Distribution -- Send students home with books. Students who have books at home read more. Period.

September Startup

Plan the first 2-3 weeks of the new school year as review and assessment. Do not assume students remember everything. Build them back up before pushing forward.