Summer Rising programs to be restored back to NYC

Get ready for Summer Rising 2.0 as New York City brings back last year’s summer school model.

Mayor Eric Adams pledged to expand the program to 110,000 elementary and middle school students, up from last summer’s 98,000, making it the largest program of its kind, he said Friday.

For high school students, the city is expanding its Summer Youth Employment program, aiming to provide jobs and internships for about 100,000 New Yorkers ages 14-24.

“So many parents are struggling in the summer months. When we put their children in a safe space, they can go on with their lives,” Adams said at a press conference in the Bronx. “It’s about improving and helping families, and childcare should not be one of their issues.”

This year’s free summer program for K-8 students will run from 8 a.m. through 3 p.m., with the option to extend the day until 6 p.m. For elementary school children, the program is from July 5 through Aug. 19, while it ends Aug. 12 for middle schoolers.

Students will spend their morning with licensed teachers, while staffers from community based organizations will lead afternoon activities such as sports and field trips.

For high school students, programs are expected to run for a half day from July 5 through Aug. 12. The opportunities provided and daily schedule will vary by school, according to the education department.

In addition to work opportunities, high school students will be able to make up previously failed classes as well as participate in college prep courses.

Enrollment is expected to begin in April. City officials did not immediately say how many school sites will host programs this year, or how families will be assigned to them.

For students with disabilities, the city is promising to provide the additional support they may need, including paraprofessionals.

Last summer, many families had concerns about the city’s ability to provide such accommodations.

Officials are still working out a transportation plan for this year, but Adams recognized it’s an issue that needs attention.

Adams is hopeful that the program will teach children life skills like breathing exercises, how to shake someone’s hand properly and how to separate lights and darks when doing laundry.

He said he’s excited for children to visit museums and explore beyond their neighborhoods, hoping that it prevents some children from the “summer slide,” which is when students regress academically during the break.