Oregon Legislature invests $30 million in summer learning programs

Oregon lawmakers made a $30 million investment in Oregon’s public school students with the passage of House Bill 4082 on Tuesday, March 5.

The bill makes the funding available for summer learning grants across the state. Summer learning programs provide intervention and enrichment programs for students who need extra assistance or to complete classes over the summer months.

“As a teacher of over 42 years and as a Legislator, I have been steadfast in my commitment to ensuring that students have the tools needed for success,” said Rep. Susan McLain, D-Forest Grove and the bill’s chief sponsor, in a press release.

Contrary to the perception that these programs are only for high school or middle school students who need to make up credits in a typical “summer school” format, summer learning in Oregon provides opportunities for students as young as kindergarten to receive individualized instruction and continuity between grade levels.

The bill also directs the Oregon Department of Education to establish the “Oregon 21st Century Community Learning Center Initiative.” The study will focus on how after-school and summer learning programs can help remedy disparities in student achievement in historically underserved communities and student groups.

“The evidence is clear – summer learning reduces learning loss between school years, accelerates academic achievement, and strengthens student wellbeing. I am grateful to bill sponsor Representative Susan McLain, a bipartisan group of legislators, and education advocates from across our state who advocated for this bill at such a critical time. Thanks to this funding, students all across Oregon will have more time to learn this summer. I hope legislative leadership can allocate additional funds before the session concludes so more students can get what they need,” said Gov. Tina Kotek in a press release. “As we advance conversations this year to examine how our schools are funded, I appreciate that this bill also creates a roadmap to explore sustainable funding for summer learning going forward. I envision an Oregon where all students have access to these essential learning and enrichment opportunities.”