APS rolls out new summer school initiative

ATLANTA - The Atlanta Public Schools system is rolling out a new summer school initiative.

Officials aim to use a creative curriculum in traditional studies, STEM and the arts to get and keep students engaged throughout the summer months.

The initiative called PowerUp is the result of school leaders working with communities to find an innovative approach to the summer school model.

APS Superintendent Dr. Meria Carstarphen spoke with FOX 5's Marissa Mitchell Tuesday about PowerUp. She said the district-wide program, will not only improve academics but will also help prevent summer slide, an academic gap that some students experience while out of school forcing them to have to re-learn information when they return to the classroom in the fall.

"We figured out that kids far preferred enrichment activities over remediation. We want to get away from a punitive model to something that has them really excited about learning," Dr. Carstarphen added.

The district also has several community partners that will help implement programs, which will include field trips.

The deadline for priority enrollment into PowerUP is Friday, May 4. Transportation, breakfast, and lunch will be provided.

For more information: atlantapublicschools.us/powerup