CHANGING THE HORIZONS IN SCHOOL EDUCATION

The Horizons National Student Enrichment Program implements 59 affiliate programs in 19 states
serving nearly 6,000 students. For more than 50 years, affiliates have offered a six-week summer
program for low-income students on the campus of an independent school, college, or university,
combined with supports during the school year. The program provides services to children in pre-
kindergarten through grade 12, with high school students often volunteering in the program. Most
importantly, students return year after year, building solid connections over time to their teachers
and peers. Children and their families must be eligible for free or reduced-price lunch to participate
and must have a willingness to take part in a long-term commitment. Most students who enroll in
Horizons are performing below grade level. The professional teachers who operate the program
provide small classes and an engaging curriculum that includes English language arts and STEM.
Other activities designed to build students’ confidence and sense of success include swimming, art,
and cultural activities.

The Horizons model requires its affiliates to implement a core set of structural and programmatic
components; for example, they must offer programming for a minimum of six weeks, six hours per
day, five days a week for children from kindergarten through at least grade 8. All programs must
include reading, writing, mathematics, and swimming instruction. The program is designed to allow
for flexibility, particularly in enrichment offerings, so affiliates can adapt to their specific
circumstances and the interests of host institutions.