Linden partners host Student Success Block Party, combat Summer Slide

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 Wednesday, June 18, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT:
Beth Berkemer
(614) 565-6767 cell
EABerkemer@columbus.gov

Linden partners host Student Success Block Party
to combat "summer slide"

COLUMBUS, OH—As summer approaches, a coalition of Linden partners is joining forces to combat the "summer slide"—the well-documented learning loss students can experience during extended school breaks. Families are invited to the Student Success Block Party on Thursday, June 26, 2025, 4-7 p.m. at the Clarence D. Lumpkin Point of Pride center, located at 1410 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH 43211.

“Prior to the school year ending, low literacy rates are a challenge for schools across the city—Linden included,” said Kym Douglas, Director of the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods. “If we want to increase literacy rates during the school year, we must keep students reading during the summer. Teachers cannot do it alone. We are proud to have partners standing in the gap during the summer.”

Javier Negrete, Community Manager for the One Linden Schools Initiative shares, “It is our duty to support Linden’s youth and families, clearing paths to student success. Together with our partners, this celebration and the work ahead, we are committed to the community by helping students stay engaged, fostering a love for reading and reducing chronic absenteeism. United through the One Linden Plan, we surround our community with love and opportunity so each student can step confidently into the new school year.”

The "summer slide" is a significant concern for educators and parents alike. Studies have shown that students can lose a substantial portion of their academic gains in reading and math over the summer months. For example, research indicates that children in 3rd to 5th grades can lose, on average, about 20 percent of their school-year gains in reading and 27 percent in math. Reading plays a crucial role in preventing this regression. Children who read at least six books during the summer often maintain or even improve their reading skills.

The Student Success Block Party aims to provide a fun and engaging environment that helps prepare children for a successful return to school in the fall. Attendees will enjoy: 

  • Free meals
  • Free books
  • Free bounce houses
  • Free back-to-school supplies
  • Free face painting
  • Dancing
  • Touch-a-truck
  • Story time
  • Opportunities to connect with local resource partners
  • Connecting with neighbors
  • And more!

Families are encouraged to register in advance at: https://tinyurl.com/4z3phxa7.

NOTE: Photos, graphics, interviews and B-roll may be available upon request.

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Department of Neighborhoods, City of Columbus
 The Department of Neighborhoods works from a foundation of devoted residents, committed neighborhood leaders and a dedicated City workforce to resolve community concerns and tap into neighborhood potential, helping to build a stronger, more equitable Columbus. As the “front door” to the city, the Department of Neighborhoods empowers residents, responds to their needs and protects their rights.

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