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SUMMER SCHOOL AND SUMMER PROGRAMS

Summer Programs

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I am a parent in the district and am wondering about any summer programs that the district might offer.  I am looking for something that is not just a "babysitting" service but more of a structured program that is run by experienced/responsible instructors and promotes social skills, team building and education.  Do any programs like this exist through Shenendehowa?  If so, where can I find information? 

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There are a variety of summer programs that are offered at Shenendehowa.  All of our programs are planned and supervised by licensed teachers and focus on skill building on some level (team building, educational disciplines, etc.)—and having fun!  Please feel free to visit Summer Education Opportunities to view information and descriptions outlining all the opportunities that Shenendehowa has to offer students in summer!

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Does the District send home information pertaining to local summer camps? I'm new to the area and would like to know what's out there.

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Summer camp programs run by the district can be found on our Summer Education Opportunities website. The towns offer many summer camp opportunities as well. You can contact the town hall for information about those camps.

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My child will be entering Middle School next year and heard that Shen offers a summer transition program. This sounds like a very helpful tool for the students to access, especially those with transition difficulties, however I was disappointed that the Shen District only offers it to the families that can afford the high cost of the summer "camp". I feel that a program like this should be offered to all students with, at most, a minimal fee.
Why is this not the case? I don't want my child to be at a disadvantage!

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The 5th to 6th grade transition is a series of activities (among many others) included in the SEEC Camp in the summer for entering 4th through entering 8th graders. SEEC is offered through the Community Education Program. The cost for a full day week long program is $195. In the spring there is an orientation for 5th graders. Transition, in general, is an area we are always working to improve and I would direct any suggestions to your elementary principal.

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Is there a department where students can sign up for summer work.  I recall several years ago students were able to sign up if they were available for yard work, etc. 

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As a district, we have never had employed students for summer facilities and grounds work. There are many things kids can do through clubs and summer beautification programs.

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I have a question regarding Shen Summer Adventures. In the past, I was told by Shen that ONLY Shen students are eligible to attend SSA. Is this still the case? Or will Shen allow students from other area school districts to take part in these camps?
We know Shen students who are turned away from the Musical Theater camp every summer because it is full and many of the kids that are able to register for this camp come from local districts OTHER than Shen. Last year there was even a student from NYC in this camp. It seems like a shame that Shen students are turned away from things offered by their school district while others who are not living in the district are enjoying it. Could you please clarify this? Thanks.

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We do take students from school districts other than Shen. We would ideally like to have Shen students first, but our registration is on a first-come/ first-serve basis. Once a camp filled its max, that camp cannot take any other students no matter where they are from. A good idea would be to register as soon as the new information is published. This will guarantee any Shen students a spot in this camp.

Summer school

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Will the tuition for Middle School and High School summer school ever really reflect the cost to the district for running summer school? When a student chooses to be disengaged for 40 weeks and then go to summer school for $3.00 it sends the wrong message. Summer school tuition should reflect the actual cost of running it and I would like to know if this might be addressed eventually by the board or administration?

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State regulations prohibit a high tuition for district students. However, we charge significantly more for non-resident summer school students.

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What is the required grade to have to go to summer school?

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Students must have a minimum average of 50.

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Is there a way, that by taking a course over the summer in summer school, count as a credit? I know that health is an option, but what about core subjects?

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No. The only exception right now is health.

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During summer school are you allowed to leave for a week if you have a vacation already booked?

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This would not be a good idea as students need increased contact time with the teacher in a failed class. You should probably speak with the summer school principal.