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Published on June 07, 2024
Gov. Bill Lee Praises Tennessee's Boost in Literacy through Summer Learning CampsSource: Spc. Kalina Hyche, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

During his sweep across Tennessee, Governor Bill Lee stopped by summer learning camps in Obion and Cheatham counties yesterday to acknowledge the efforts of educators dedicated to boosting students' literacy. In a state-wide initiative, Tennessee has bolstered its educational programs through focused K-3 literacy strategies, which include these summer camps aimed at enhancing reading and mathematical skills among elementary school children, officials reported.

These programs, according to statements from Gov. Lee's office, are part of a larger plan to prepare Tennessee students for lasting success, particularly emphasizing gains in reading proficiency. "For the fourth year now, summer learning camps are ensuring students have the tools necessary to achieve reading gains," Gov. Lee said, "As we continue to prepare students for success in the classroom and beyond with a strong K-3 literacy strategy, I commend Tennessee’s dedicated teachers for providing this key support." Noteworthy is the fact that since a special legislative session passed measures in January 2021, to counteract learning loss, these camps have seen strong enrollment and attendance.

The recent decision to expand summer learning to include grades K-9 reflects a commitment to broad educational support, a move that has resulted in over 100,000 students participating statewide. In the camps' latest cycle, notable advancements were reported, specifically in math for students slated to enter grades 1-3 and English Language Arts (ELA) for those entering grades 4-9. This demonstrates, as the framework was designed to do, a palpable impact on student achievement during the critical summer months.

Commissioner of Education Lizzette Reynolds has thrown in her support for the initiative, applauding the state's efforts in providing additional academic support over the summer. "Thanks to the commitment of Gov. Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly, thousands of students across Tennessee continue to participate in summer learning camps to catch up, accelerate their learning, and benefit from additional academic support over the summer," Reynolds said. "We are proud to be a leader in proven interventions that are working to set all of our students on a path to success."