Summer Learning Advocates Share Their Message on Capitol Hill

May 30, 2019

In May 2019, summer learning advocates from around the country met with leaders on Capitol Hill to advocate for federal funding and programs that support summer learning and enrichment activities.

Together, the group:

  • Raised awareness among congressional members and staff of summer learning loss as well as the risks for young people related to health and safety during the summer
  • Shared the positive impact of effective programs, and the negative impact of budget cuts, using both data and stories
  • Asked for support of key federal programs that support summer activities at the local level
  • Built relationships with elected officials and their staff and invited them to visit local programs over the summer

During meetings with 20 congressional offices representing 10 states, the Advocates secured commitments to support funding for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program, Title IV-A of ESSA, summer meals, and AmeriCorps programs, and extended invitations to visit programs when Congress is in recess this summer.

At the same time, advocates made their voices heard on social media, tweeting support for the same issues, and reaching almost 80,000 accounts and 135,000 impressions.

The season of summer advocacy is just beginning! Join us in telling your congressional representatives about how your programs keep kids learning, and asking for their support in protecting and funding these critical programs. Here are several ways to take action:

Rachel Gwaltney is Director of Policy and Partnerships with the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA). Rachel leads development and implementation of services, projects, and partnerships that strengthen summer learning policy and build capacity of state and national leaders and organizations.