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Open Choice Students Thrive During Summer Academy


(East Hartford, CT) Kamron Redding-Hall is 6, and, although he lives in Hartford, he is getting ready to start the second grade at an elementary school in South Windsor through the Hartford Region Open Choice Program.


Kamron says he loves math, likes to read, and has never been fond of summer.


“I don’t like summer,” he said. “You don’t learn anything.”


This summer, however, is different for Kamron. In July, he attended the Open Choice Summer Academy, a month-long academic summer program for Open Choice students going into the first through eighth grades. The program, which was held at CREC Two Rivers Magnet Middle School and served 177 students, helps both those who need extra support and students, such as Kamron, who are looking to continue learning during the summer.


The Summer Academy is focused on academics, but students do participate in hands-on activities, hear from strong, local minority leaders, and go on field trips as part of the curriculum.


“The whole idea is to prepare children for the next grade,” said Rudy Thomas, student services coordinator.


The Open Choice Program, formerly known as Project Concern, has helped Greater Hartford students for nearly five decades. It allows Hartford students the opportunity to attend public schools in suburban towns and suburban students the opportunity to attend public schools in Hartford. The goals of the program are to improve academic achievement; reduce racial, ethnic, and economic isolation; and provide all children with a choice of high-quality educational programs.


For Hartford’s Kiara Rondon, the Summer Academy is a chance to learn and make new friends. It is better than watching television or hanging out by the pool, said the 10 year old, who attends Canton Public Schools.


The Summer Academy is offered to Open Choice students each summer. The program is free and includes breakfast and lunch, but there is a modest application fee, and that money goes into a fund established to provide college scholarships to Open Choice students who are graduating from high school.


To participate in the Open Choice Program, families must apply through the Greater Hartford Regional School Choice Office. For more information, visit www.choiceeducation.org.


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