The Westfield Public School District’s Extended School Year (ESY) Program recently wrapped up its 22nd summer, assisting students with Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) in preventing skill regression and preparing for the upcoming school year.
“The ESY Program is for students with IEPs who would benefit from maintaining skills during the summer months to prevent learning loss,” says ESY Supervisor Julia Torres, praising the district teachers and paraprofessionals who support the students in the program. “It also is a way for students from across the district to meet each other and form friendships.”
The district’s ESY program operated from July 2-August 7, serving approximately 126 students in preschool through grade twelve. The instructional day was structured with a focus on maintaining language arts and math skills, along with the students' IEP goals. The schedule allowed for opportunities to learn and build on important social-emotional and other skills as well.
“We had some fun activities this year, including a visit with a librarian from the Westfield Memorial Library and physical education classes, with members of the Westfield High School girls and boys basketball teams volunteering their time to help the younger students,” Torres says. “The students enjoyed a visit from a therapy dog, along with a weekly "Peaceful Playground" program where they focused on cooperative play, taking turns, and creative thinking to foster teamwork and positive play interactions.”
