Brilliant Detroit announces new citywide summer literacy campaign to curb student learning loss

Originally posted on Detroit Public TV

As summer break continues for students across the United States, concerns about the academic impact of learning loss on communities of color and low-income families continue to heighten. Research consistently shows that students from these communities are disproportionately affected by the “summer slide,” a phenomenon where children experience a decline in academic skills and knowledge during the extended break. With limited access to resources and educational opportunities, these students face even greater challenges in bridging the achievement gap when they return to school in the fall.

Addressing this issue has become a critical focus for educators, policymakers, and local and national community organizations, like Brilliant Detroit and Reading Partners, as they strive to ensure equity and provide support to vulnerable populations during the summer months. By creating engaging and enjoyable summer literacy programs, it can instill a love for reading and learning in children, making them more motivated to excel academically.

Brilliant Detroit Co-founder & CEO Cindy Eggleton and Reading Partners CEO Adeola Whitney talked with “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson about Brilliant Detroit’s new citywide summer literacy campaign at its community hubs. Children and families can take part in reading activities, field trips and pop-up events designed to keep young kids engaged in the joy of reading. Whitney, whose national organization partnered with Brilliant Detroit for the event, also talks about collaborating in Detroit for the first time and providing volunteer tutors to assist families.

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