Horizons Hampton Roads

Research shows that students without quality summer activities or programming fall behind in their academics every summer, and those who fall two or more grade levels behind, may never catch up. Students of Horizons Hampton Roads in grades k-8 make significant, measurable gains in both reading and math each summer, averaging 9-14 weeks' gains in academic equivalency scores at the end of 6 weeks. Making a long-term commitment to our students, they are invited to return each summer to continue progressing in academic skills, confidence and other social-emotional skills, while supporting a joy of learning these many benefits, including steady academic growth, transcends to the traditional school year classroom, and students continue to grow academically while also strengthening the soft skills that build resiliency and a commitment to their education. Horizons' dynamic summer programming has a proven track record, with many of our 8th-grade students having attended since kindergarten last year, we boasted an impressive 90% daily attendance rate, showcasing the effectiveness of our well-rounded curriculum. Our balanced approach includes engaging academic instruction in reading, math, and stem, coupled with enriching activities including music, art, swimming, hands-on field trips, service learning, and chess instruction. Post program satisfaction surveys of both parents and students indicate high approval ratings on the program's impact on teaching new skills, building confidence, goal setting, supporting healthy relationships, teaching the importance of exercise, healthy nutrition and lifestyle choices, and more. In 2022, Horizons launched a year-round high school program, supporting 50 -60 students annually with the goals of ensuring academic success with homework support, regular check in with parents, advocacy, service referrals, and more. In person activities include visits to area colleges and technical/ trade schools, service leadership opportunities, career exploration, financial literacy workshops, social-emotional skills building, and healthy recreation. Horizons also launched a senior scholarship valued at 5,000, which is awarded through a competitive application process in partnership with access college foundation. Hhr provides assistance with the application process, and in students' search for colleges or other post-secondary career paths.