This entry comes from Aim High, a nationally recognized, results-driven, free summer enrichment program, and a two-time New York Life Foundation Excellence in Summer Learning Award winner.
“Receiving the Excellence Award for the 2nd time was a tremendous honor for Aim High. It validated our commitment to relentless improvement and quality/deliberate expansion in the service of youth with limited opportunities but unlimited potential. The award also celebrated our distinctive model.”
Is there anything better than making lists? I love crossing things off the to-do list, reminding myself of what’s coming my way and always anticipating the magic of summer. Because of Aim High, summer is my full-time job. I’m Alec Lee, Executive Director and co-founder of the Bay Area’s largest summer learning program for low-income middle school students. Below are a few reminders for me and my team about the power of summer learning, as we prepare for “Summer Number 35!”—because we all know that time of year will be here before we know it!
I. Dare to Be Different
High-quality summer programs improve math and reading skills and build critical social-emotional skills in students—skills that help them in school, careers, and life. Summer can be joyful, adventurous, and fun. Our multi-summer model uses project-based learning, a social/emotional curriculum, small class sizes, and collaborative experiences to engage students and prepare them to thrive. To learn more, ask about our Issues and Choices class.
II. Role Models Matter
Each summer, Aim High alumni make up 50% of our interns and assistant teachers—evidence of their commitment to our program. They serve as role models for our first-generation, college-bound youth, showing that high school success and college matriculation are possible.
Watch Deena’s Story to learn more about our graduates and teaching interns. Ask us about our Aspiring Teachers Program.
III. Know Your Values
Aim High’s core values—Community, Opportunity, Respect, and High Expectations—are infused into every aspect of our program. As one student said: “Aim High staff made me feel like I mattered at a time when I felt worthless. They showed me it was okay to be who I really am.” Restorative practices, community building, and open dialogue ensure our middle schoolers feel seen and supported.
IV. Honoring Our Families’ Voices
Family involvement is central to our model. We hold Family Orientation, Futures Night, and Celebration Night during our five-week program. Families explore high school and college options, learn about financial aid, and connect with partners like College Track and Legal Aid. To learn more, ask about Future’s Night and Opportunity Coaches.
V. Investing in Quality Educators
We rely on over 550 educators each summer. Recently, we’ve increased their pay to recognize their expertise and dedication. Our staff are the heart of the program, and competitive salaries help us recruit and retain the best teachers.
If you believe in the power of summer learning, listen to “Get Schooled: Aim High” here .
Visit aimhigh.org to learn more about our mission to create life-changing opportunities for youth.
About the Authors
Alec Lee is an accomplished educator who co-founded Aim High in 1986 and serves as Executive Director. He holds an M.A. in Education from Harvard and a Klingenstein Fellowship from Columbia Teachers College.
Alix Joslyn joined Aim High in April 2018 as Grants Associate. She holds a B.A. in Music History and M.S. in Professional Communication from Clark University.
What NSLA’s Trend Data Tells Us About Excellence Award Winners Over the Last Decade (click the image to expand)
