Empowering Young Minds: A Day in The Children’s Guild Extended School Year Program
At The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore, summer learning continues with their Extended School Year program! Beginning every July, this initiative supports children in achieving their IEP goals and smooths the transition back to school in the fall. Each year features a unique theme; this year’s focus is “Community Helpers.” The program blends fun activities with essential subjects like reading and math. Students participate in various hands-on activities, such enjoying field trips like visiting the pool, where they engage with community helpers like lifeguards.
Mrs. P, a teacher at The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore, explains that the “Community Helpers” theme is designed to teach students the significance of internal and external helpers. “We’re helping students understand where their community is, how we build our community, and how we enrich our community. It is very important for us to develop that sense of community, especially considering the background of many of our kids.” She further describes how students in the classroom “respect each other, are kind to each other, and protect each other.”
Will, a 9th grader, shared that he has learned how to clean up not just his school and home but everywhere in his community. He helps his grandmother around the house and enjoys playing games with his friends. Will loves the Extended School Year program because it allows him to continue his education and spend a lot of time at the pool.
Brianna, an 11th grader, shared that she likes to help people “who are sick, alive, and those who respect themselves.” This summer, Brianna has spent a lot of time playing outside and practicing piano. She explains that she is contributing to her school community by collecting trash and sweeping the floors.
We invite you to engage with our vibrant community. Consider becoming a community helper in your own neighborhood by participating in local clean-up events, volunteering at community centers, or simply spreading kindness in your daily interactions. Let’s work together to inspire and empower the next generation of community helpers! Share your own community helper experiences with us on Facebook or Instagram @TCGBaltimore.
Free preschool is an invaluable resource most find easy to support. Maryland is leading the way by instituting expanded free pre-K for many families who live in the state. Many other states have also launched free pre-K programs or are in the process of doing so. Through a variety of quality learning experiences in pre-K, kids develop skills, knowledge, and behaviors essential to being successful in school and life. 
