In July, the Toronto District School Board launched its 11th year of the Inspired to Excel Pre-Kindergarten to Kindergarten Summer Learning Program. The initiative provides students with rich learning experiences to support emergent literacy and numeracy skills rooted in Africentric and culturally relevant programming. A key outcome is for young learners to deepen their sense of belonging, self-awareness, and develop an overall positive sense of self. This year, Inspired to Excel was offered at nine locations across the TDSB with 126 participating students.
“There is so much beauty in this summer learning experience – from our collaboration with Early Years and Model Schools for Inner Cities, to the rich culturally nurturing learning opportunities experienced by TDSB’s youngest learners, to the ongoing commitment to relationship and partnership building with families and community organizations,” says Rukiya Mohamed, Program Coordinator of the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement.
The program gives students a strong foundation for success in September, with students entering JK “getting a first-hand experience of what school could be like while we are setting them up with learning about who they are as learners, affirming their identities, and building their sense of belonging,” says educator Kismat Khalifa. This was further amplified by educator Vinuja Sritharan who added, “by creating consistent routines, encouraging independence, and bridging the gap between home and school, the program helps children feel more prepared, more connected, and more eager to step into the classroom in the fall.”
As part of the program, learners and their families received a backpack filled with rich and intentional resources to support literacy and numeracy development through play and inquiry. To complement the learning, community educators offered diverse experiences such as visual arts, Reggaecise and storytelling. In addition, many times throughout the month family members joined their child in learning, sharing aspects of their identity and culture in recognition of the value and wealth of knowledge and experience families bring.
Description: Image of students, staff and caregivers participating in Reggaecise.
To support instructional programming, educators engaged in weekly professional learning sessions. These sessions were anchored in enhancing teaching and relational practices to maintain the authenticity of the program and share best practices in service of the young learners.
For families interested in enrolling their child in the program, it’s important to know that “this is a space where your child’s full identity is uplifted, and your role as a co-educator is respected. Join with an open heart, and get ready to watch your child grow with confidence and curiosity,” says educator Vinuja Sritharan.
Registration for the Inspired to Excel Pre-Kindergarten to Kindergarten Summer Learning Program opens each spring at select schools.
Description: Image of student artwork.