For many families, summer is a time to rest, reconnect, and recharge. But it can also be a time when academic progress slows down—especially for students who thrive with structure, daily engagement and consistent support.
That’s why Springfield Public Schools is once again offering its Explore summer programming alongside virtual courses through Launch Virtual Learning—creating flexible, accessible options for students in rising grades K–12.
Together, Explore and Launch ensure that every child in Springfield (and statewide) has a pathway to stay engaged, build skills and step confidently into the next school year.
Preventing “Summer Slide”
For more than a century, research has shown that students can lose academic ground over long breaks from structured learning—particularly in math and reading. Without daily practice and feedback, skills can stall or slip. For families already balancing work schedules, childcare needs, and other responsibilities, finding consistent enrichment opportunities can be challenging.
Explore helps bridge that gap.
For students in rising grades K–8, Explore offers seated, in-person classes at multiple locations in Springfield. Students participate in hands-on lessons in reading, math, science and social studies, along with electives and creative pathways like Artworks, agriculture-focused programs, and STEAM exploration. Free breakfast and lunch are provided at most Explore sites, and bus transportation is available for eligible students—helping remove barriers that can prevent participation. In addition, our littlest learners benefit from Kindergarten Jump Start, a summer program designed to build classroom confidence before their very first day of school.
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