When COVID-19 forced students out of their classrooms and into chatrooms, experts from local foundations and nonprofit organizations came together to help at-risk children stay on track and avoid academic regression. Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County and Community Foundation of Sarasota County are two of the key players in this community-wide collaboration.

“While teachers worked tirelessly to connect with their students in this new virtual space, a staggering number of children faced unique challenges at home that kept them from accessing, learning and retaining their schoolwork,” said Bill Sadlo, President/CEO at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County.

Despite the remarkable efforts of schools and teachers, recent studies suggest children are more likely to experience an academic relapse due to the pandemic, otherwise known as the “COVID slide” or “COVID slowdown.” This concern is even more daunting for students who lack the resources and tools necessary to achieve state standards. Whether children are experiencing food insecurity or witnessing a parent file for unemployment, the pandemic has exacerbated long-standing opportunity gaps and threatens the livelihood of our community’s future leaders if they fall behind academically.

“With partners like the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, we’re closing the achievement gap this summer through our Great Futures Academy at no cost to local families,” said Sadlo. 

Community Foundation of Sarasota County awarded $160,000 from the Allen Wirtz Nobbe and Jo Bowen Nobbe Fund and Edward K. Roberts Emerging Needs Fund to Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County in support of this modified summer program.

Great Futures Academy was planned in accordance with the health protocols set forth by federal and local officials including the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and the Florida Department of Health. With the highest safety measures in place, the program provides academic enrichment activities to a limited number of children between the ages of 6 and 12 who are either a student at a Title I school or a child of a local first responder.

The program features academic enrichment activities with supplemental curriculum designed to empower youth to excel in school, become leaders, adopt healthy habits and plan for success after high school graduation. Meals and snacks are also served to program participants at no additional cost.

Click here for more information.