Programs

Summer on the Hill works with students in two distinct programs. The Grade 3-8 program provides public school children entering grades 3-8 with summer and Saturday academic year enrichment in language arts, mathematics, science, the arts, and sports. All 8th graders and their families, and several younger students who are ready for the challenge of an independent school, receive guidance on school choices.

The Post-Placement program maintains Summer on the Hill's community for Grade 3-8 program alumni currently in high school. Post-Placement activities such as community service, mentoring, and SAT classes, enrich students' experiences and prepare them for the college admissions process.

• Summer Program
• Academic Year
• Placement
• Post-Placement
• Mentoring

Recent Highlights

During the 2004 Grade 3-8 summer program, 202 children attended daily language arts, math, and science classes. The children also swam, played tennis, and enjoyed the help of their high school mentors in the classroom and on the playing field. A highlight of the Grade 3-8 summer program was the John Dorr Nature Lab overnights, where science came to life! Activities at Dorr included testing for ions in the stream and using a magnetic tool to find meteorite debris on the Dorr property. The musical theatre classes culminated in an exuberant student performance of Broadway song and dance on Horace Mann's Fisher Hall stage.

During the 2004-2005 academic year program, teachers continued to enrich our students' education. Language arts teachers inspired children to think critically about the books they were reading - ranging from Mr. Popper's Penguins to Romeo and Juliet. Math teachers encouraged children to make up word problems to demonstrate their understanding of math concepts. Great strides were made in teaching science with labs purchased through Delta Education. Hands-on labs challenged children to hypothesize and experiment as they collaborated in small groups. The skills students learned are developmentally challenging, and promote creativity and critical thinking.

During the academic year, Summer on the Hill staff advised 20 8th graders and six younger children and their families on school choices. The 2005 Placement results demonstrate our students' motivation and commitment to learning!

The Mentor program experienced one of its best summers in 2004. Many mentors will return in 2005, to the joy of the younger children. During the 2004-2005 academic year, Post-Placement students attended a pre-Thanksgiving weekend at Dorr, volunteered at Summer on the Hill, and achieved a fabulous record for College Placement.