The summer slump may be able to tell us about demographics that would be affected the most during COVID. This is because there are some parallels between what might be causing a drop in academic performance:

- Lack of resources at home (i.e. computers, wifi connection...)
- Household culture (i.e. value of education)
- Distractions from education

Insight: What can the summer slump tell us about higher-level education and how COVID may have affected it?

- Research has shown that low-income children have less access to books and other printed material than their more advantaged peers. 
- Providing books to low-income children and encouraging them to read is a relatively cost-effective and replicable approach that can help to develop their reading skills over the summer and bridge achievement gap.

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Blazer, C. (2011). SUMMER LEARNING LOSS: WHY ITS EFFECT IS STRONGEST AMONG LOW-INCOME STUDENTS AND HOW IT CAN BE COMBATED. Retrieved December 1, 2020, from https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED536514.pdf

Summer Slump Study and Suggestions

Summer Reading Research Findings 

- Summer programs are affordable and accessible regardless of income level
- Summer programs are offered at early grade levels.
- Summer programs differ from traditional school year programs
- Academic instruction is blended with enrichment activities
- A safe place is provided for children 
- Experienced staff are hired 
- Class sizes are small
- Positive relationships are promoted 
- Parent involvement is encouraged 
- Community partnerships are established 


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