YAKIMA, Wash. – The Yakima School District (YSD) announced it was awarded $200,000 in a preliminary planning grant from Ballmer Summer Discovery initiative to develop summer learning opportunities.
The funds will be primarily used to develop plans for a a “Summer Discovery” program, according to a press release from the school district.
“The Summer Discovery program will be offered free of charge to families and is aimed at rising 1st through 9th grade students (current kindergarten through 8th grade),” YSD said. “The initiative emphasizes full-day programs that advance educational outcomes and keep children safe and engaged in learning over the summer.”
YSD Superintendent Dr. Trevor Greene praised the work of the district and highlighted its goal of reducing learning loss among students while on breaks.
“We are grateful for the confidence this grant reflects in the Yakima School District’s ability to deliver high-impact programming,” Greene said. “This $200,000 grant provides a runway to design a Summer Discovery program that is not only academically rigorous, but deeply enriching, culturally responsive, and engaging for students and families. Our goal is simple: eliminate summer learning loss and expand opportunity—because our students’ potential should never take a break.”
The Association of Educational Service Districts will partner with YSD on grant administration.
