"Jump Start Kindergarten" will run from Aug. 17-21 at every elementary school in the school district, thanks to an Oregon Department of Education multi-year State Summer Learning Grant.
"Jump Start Kindergarten" will run from Aug. 17-21 at every elementary school in the school district, thanks to an Oregon Department of Education multi-year State Summer Learning Grant.
HOOD RIVER — The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) awarded the Hood River County School District (HRCSD) a multi-year State Summer Learning Grant, ensuring quality academic and enrichment programming for local students through the summer of 2028.
Emerging from a highly competitive statewide application process, HRCSD secured this funding by applying as part of a regional consortium through the Columbia Gorge Education Service District (CGESD). This collaborative approach ensures HRCSD was selected based on its proven track record and a clear vision for student success. Unlike previous single-year funding cycles, this three-year commitment provides the school district with the stability to recruit long-term staff, strengthen community partnerships, and deepen the impact of its literacy and math initiatives.
“This grant allows us to turn the summer slide into a summer leap for our students,” said HRCSD Superintendent Bill Newton. “Having led this work for many years, I’ve seen firsthand how summer momentum changes a student's trajectory for the entire following school year. We are grateful to the Oregon Department of Education for recognizing the strength of our program.”
The primary summer session will take place from July 6-24 at Mid Valley Elementary School. The program is designed to foster a safe, joyful environment where students build social-emotional skills while staying connected to peers and trusted mentors.
Academic Focus: Evidence-based literacy and math instruction to ensure students hit the ground running in the fall.
Enrichment: Hands-on STEM projects, outdoor education, and arts that utilize Hood River County’s unique landscape, including partnerships with local farms and libraries.
Eligibility: While open to all HRCSD students, the program prioritizes those who need extra time and support. Invitations will be sent directly to eligible families later this spring.
A key component of this year’s grant is the "Jump Start Kindergarten" program, which will run from Aug. 17-21 at every elementary school in the school district. This initiative helps our youngest learners transition smoothly into the school environment.
Incoming kindergarten families are encouraged to register now to participate in this funded transition week. Families can register their students using thisGoogle Form.
“In Hood River, we believe learning shouldn’t stop in June,” said Superintendent Newton. “This is ensuring every student has a path to success year-round. This funding means three years of guaranteed opportunity for our kids.”
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