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I hope you're having a fantastic summer and finding some time to relax. Statewide summer programs like the Summer Reading Program and the Summer Food Service Program are currently in full swing, providing opportunities for our students to have the nourishment they need to thrive and foster a love of reading.
The 2024 Summer Food Service Program, which provides free meals to approximately 400,000 children, kicked off this month at nearly 2,500 sites statewide. You can use the interactive USDA online map to find a service site by address, city, or zip code. These sites are conveniently located in neighborhood parks, pools, libraries, camps, schools, and community centers, making it easy to access nutritious food all summer long.
In addition, the New York State Museum is hosting pop-up programs throughout the summer designed to spark creativity and curiosity. These family-friendly programs will be offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays in July and August and will change regularly, so if you’re in the area, be sure to visit the Museum!
As I mentioned in my last newsletter, the Summer Reading at New York Libraries program provides activities for all age levels. Throughout the summer, local libraries across the state are hosting various activities and events to bring children, families, and communities together for reading and enrichment programs. This year’s theme, “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” promotes exploration, outdoor activities, and reading adventures for students and their families.
Another excellent summer learning resource is Let’s Learn, a series of engaging instructional programs for kids ages 4 to 7 from The WNET Group. Keep the learning going all summer with these lessons on literacy, math, science, the arts, and more. Check your local PBS listings for new episodes airing on weekdays!
Finally, if you have a student who is interested in becoming a teacher, I am excited to share that the New York State Education Department has partnered with TeachNY to provide free tools and services that help future teachers navigate the process. TeachNY is a centralized hub for prospective teachers to explore the profession, access free and comprehensive resources, and receive support in applying to teacher prep programs throughout the state. Aspiring educators can sign up at TeachNY.org to learn more about how they can receive 1-on-1 career advice, resources to help them compare options, and financial aid to help them apply to and enroll in a teaching program.
If you haven’t already, be sure to subscribe to this newsletter for the latest news and updates. Thank you for reading!
Sincerely,
Betty A. Rosa
Commissioner
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