Councilman Greg Stanton’s
Ahwatukee Republic Column

As most students enjoy their summer break from going to school every day, others are busy taking preparatory and recreational classes available at local high schools. Both Mountain Pointe and Desert Vista are two high schools located in our Ahwatukee Foothills community. They won’t be on a complete break during the summer as each high school offers programs that will keep our young students busy.

Mountain Pointe High hosts a “Summer Bridge” program for eighth-grade students who need extra assistance with reading, writing and math skills necessary for high school. The program runs for six weeks and typically involves 30 to 35 students, but can accommodate up to 50. The six-week program offers four dedicated teachers who work closely with students on their academics. Attendees also meet with a school counselor to discuss topics including peer relations, handling conflicts and study skills – topics that will help the young students mentally prepare for their transition to high school. Once the students begin the school year in the fall, the same school counselor will continue to meet with them during their first year to ensure their transition is seamless.

Participating students who haven’t passed their math or language arts classes, have scored below the AIMS test or are in the bottom 25-percentile on district or standardized tests are recruited from various elementary schools. Students also can be accepted based on referrals from teachers or requests from their parents. Completion of the Summer Bridge program results in the students earning half of an elective credit and gives them the opportunity to meet some of the future peers in a less intimidating environment. For more information on this program, contact Mountain Pointe High at 480-759-8449.

Desert Vista High offers several programs including a free MATH camp for 200 fifth- and seventh-graders within the Kyrene School District. Students and faculty from the Roosevelt School District also participate in this program that will help elementary school students with math concepts to increase their academic performance. A Math Summer Bridge program also will occur to assist incoming students to earn math credit for algebra and taught by DVHS teachers. The majority of the students from the Bridge program are placed in honors geometry as freshman, next school year. Local high school students also can register for various summer sports programs including basketball and football, along with weight training and conditioning. Desert Vista, in partnership with the city of Phoenix, will continue with the Arts Academy. This program for elementary age students will improve their skill in art and design, drama and dance. For more information on the summer programs available at Desert Vista, contact their main office at 480-706-7900.

Encourage your children to stay active during the summer break – if they aren’t participating in the programs listed above, have them enjoy classes offered at the Pecos Community Center or they can sign up for summer reading programs available at the Phoenix Public Libraries. Starting in July, the libraries will be open one hour earlier and offer a quiet (and cool) place to relax while reading.

No matter how you spend your summer, be safe and enjoy all that our community has to offer.