Summer Learning Keeps LVJUSD Students Engaged

July 27, 2020 – Livermore, CA – The Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District recently completed its K-12 Summer School Program for 2020. The session, spanning a four-week period in a completely virtual environment, provided unique classroom experiences for over 700 students with the right blend of rigor, fun and innovative approaches to learning. The commitment of the teaching staff and the involvement of parents in at-home support made this year’s model successful for students and valuable for teachers involved in remote instruction.

A K-2 Literacy Academy and a K-5 Academy for English Language Development utilized goal-setting and self-monitoring to support our young learners. At the session’s end, elementary principals Marni Angelo and Leslie Williams reflected on their students’ impressive gains in literacy and English Language Arts (ELA) skills, citing the assessment-driven, invitation-only selection process and the individualized, targeted instruction. “Students were invited to a program created to fit their specific needs. Classes were small, teachers were given real-time professional development and support, and students were able to develop self-confidence in their achievements. The virtual environment allowed teachers to create small groups to individualize instruction and truly connect with their students.” An additional population of 128 students in our Extended School Year (ESY) Program were able to maintain their academic skills through guided practice and learning under the guidance of coordinator Jenny Kordes.

In the secondary program, Principal Clark Conover cited his ability to “virtually visit” classrooms to observe co-teachers at work with a group of students as a positive aspect of the program. The program included a focus on character development, and teachers were able to utilize office hours to personalize learning. Conover noted that over 300 students were able to take additional coursework in targeted areas of math and English, as well as other content areas including social studies and world language. Upperclassmen were able to work on credit deficiencies so that they could remain on track for graduation. And, even without the traditional Alameda County Fair, Agriculture students participated in animal care and sold livestock via a virtual show and auction. “It was a positive experience for all of us, and I know my colleagues and I are proud of our summer school team,” said Conover.