Each year, the School District of Philadelphia (SDP) and its partner organizations offer a variety of summer programs to ensure that students, especially those most vulnerable to experiencing summer learning loss, have the opportunity to continue learning during the summer months.

This report provides a summary of the 2023 summer programs, including information about enrollment and attendance, and findings from surveys and observations. The successes and challenges of program implementation can provide insights and guide implementation for Summer 2024.

Key findings include:

• During Summer 2023, over 14,000 students were enrolled in summer programming, over 11,000 students attended a program for at least one day, and over 5,000 students attended a summer program for 75% or more program days.
• Summer program staff were generally pleased with Professional Development (PD), curriculum, and materials; those who were not requested that PD align with their teaching assignment, curriculum be provided prior to the start of the program, and materials last the length of the program.
• The majority of staff felt that they could sufficiently support all students, but some teachers wanted additional support staff in each classroom.
• Students generally reported that they enjoyed their summer program, believed their summer program prepared them for school in the fall, and felt their teachers were supportive. However, some described concerns about scheduling, transportation, food services, facility issues, and instructional practices.
• Recommendations for improvement from the survey respondents included: offering relevant PD for staff, improving communication and access to information, and ensuring academic materials last throughout the summer.