Frontier College kicks off summer literacy program for Indigenous youth
The program is expected to reach 7,000 First Nations students
For most kids, the best part of the summer holidays is no homework. But a new nationwide initiative is trying to change that, somewhat.
Frontier College has launched a program specifically for Indigenous youth and runs all across Canada.
"It's to prevent children from summer reading loss, and developing the love of reading and to have parents be engaged with their children to read all summer long," said Thona Longneck, regional director of Frontier College for Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
The summer literacy camp is meant to encourage kids to both take learning outside the classroom, and retain what they learned the year before.
"Our camps incorporate fun activities that children adapt to very easily," said Longneck.
The camp includes teachings from elders and other Indigenous community leaders. Approximately 7,000 students are expected to partake in the summer camp this year.
Thona said the program is mindful of students that might come from lower-income families, and inner-city schools and that they might not be receiving the necessary supports.
She added the summer program strives to give kids the confidence they need to do well next year.