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 2024 summer programs, including information about enrollment and attendance, and findings from surveys. The successes and challenges of program implementation can provide insights and guide implementation for Summer 2025.

Key findings include:

• During Summer 2024, nearly 18,000 students were enrolled in one of 13 different summer programs. Over 13,000 students attended a program for at least one day, and nearly 8,500 students attended a summer program for 75% or more of days they were enrolled. Over 6,500 attended for 75% or more of the total program days.
• Over 300 Summer School students graduated, and over 2,000 Summer School students recovered credits. Students who attended the Summer Achievers program did not have as much summer learning loss in math compared to their peers as measured by students who had both Spring to Fall Star Math performance results. The same was not true for Star Reading.
• Summer program staff generally reported satisfaction with the PD, curriculum, materials, leadership, and facilities. Those who were not satisfied had suggestions, including for strengthening curriculum, providing additional materials, or improving facilities.
• Staff reported they could support the students on their roster, although some ESY staff asked for additional support staff, and some Summer School staff asked for additional climate staff.
• Students reported that they generally enjoyed their summer program, that they learned new things, felt cared for, and that they will do better in the fall because of their summer program. Students also suggested improvements, including more enrichment activities, better food, and schedule changes.
• Families reported that they were pleased with the program overall, their student’s academic and social experience, the registration process, and the travel to their student’s program site. Respondents also made suggestions for improvements on topics such as communication and scheduling.