Summer 2024

Summer 2024 was full of joy at Horizons! Students were busy exploring, creating, trying new things, growing relationships, and building their skills. The Horizons Network of 68 programs nationwide supported over 7,500 students in pre-kindergarten through high school, thanks to the hard work of more than 1,800 teachers and staff.

Across the Horizons Network of 68 program sites, 96% of student spots were filled. Additionally, programs saw an 80% retention rate, meaning that 4 out of 5 Horizons students and families returned to the program for another year! Throughout the summer, the average daily attendance rate across all Horizons programs was 88% - building upon the positive engagement trend following the pandemic. 

Our programs use STAR Literacy and Math testing to measure Horizons' impact on students' academic growth. STAR data helps Horizons teachers and Reading Specialists understand the needs of their students to help deliver more individualized instruction. Students are assessed at the beginning of each summer session, and again at the end to highlight their growth in early literacy, reading, and math during their 6 weeks with Horizons. In 2024, students made at least 1 week of gains in both reading and math per week of programming!

 

Of course, data is only one piece of the puzzle - the heartfelt words direct from our students, families, and teachers show the true magic of Horizons.

• "[I value] that every time I go to Horizons I have such a wonderful time no matter what. 
  I wouldn't trade Horizons for anything else."
  - 8th grade student, Horizons at New Canaan Country School (CT)

 

• "I felt myself get a love of teaching back from working with students and the ability to be creative, flexible, and have fun. I think they also received some love of learning, which will take them through the start of the school year."
  - teacher, Horizons at Lancaster Country Day School (PA)

 

• "I promise this was the best decision I ever made for my daughter. Everyone that I came in contact with was amazing. I will definitely be back next year. Thank you so much for caring for my child."
  - family, Horizons Hampton Roads (VA)

 

• "Every year I value spending time at Horizons. Everyday we do something new that is always important to me and fun. This summer has helped me prepare for a job interview and has helped me create a resume that will help me in the next few years."
  - 9th grade student, Horizons Albuquerque (NM)