Summer Scholars Institute Receives $15,000 Grant for Program Essentials   

Each year, students who can’t get past learning, language and environmental barriers end up dropping out of school – a decision that will affect them for the rest of their lives. But for 19 years, Summer Scholars Institute has helped students in Gainesville city and Hall, Habersham and Barrow county schools overcome those barriers and discover new dreams of a college education.

On the basis of counselor recommendations, approximately 50 rising 8th graders enter the three-year program each summer. Summer Scholars attend all classes during the intensive four-week summer sessions, doing assigned class work and homework and following strict behavior and dress codes. In return for their effort, the kids get a head start on the school year.

“We started aligning lesson plans to Georgia performance standards in 2007,” said Program Director Robyn Anyanwu. “Georgia certified middle school teachers instruct students using lessons that they will be learning in the first few months of their next school year.”

The results have been impressive. Close to 70% of the participants graduate at the end of their third year.

“The program builds confidence and enthusiasm for learning,” Anyanwu said. “The children go back to school ahead of everyone else in their class. It also gives them a better awareness of college opportunities. Before they enter the Summer Scholars Institute, many of them don’t believe that’s an attainable goal to them.”

A $15,000 Jackson EMC Foundation grant helps fund Summer Scholars Institute program supplies, transportation, meals, field trips and uniforms.