Summer Scholars Program
The Summer Scholars Program is a six-week extension of the academic year designed to advance academic achievement while promoting the physical, mental, and social well-being of underserved youth. Students typically enter fifth grade reading two to three years below grade level, and without structured summer support, learning loss further widens these gaps. In Newburgh, New York, where persistent poverty, food insecurity, and high rates of community violence negatively impact health and educational outcomes, students face compounded barriers to success. The Summer Scholars Program addresses these interconnected challenges through an integrated model that supports the whole child.
Summer Scholars provides daily literacy and math instruction, small-group academic intervention, enrichment activities, and intentional social-emotional learning. These elements are delivered in a safe, structured environment where students receive consistent adult mentorship and individualized attention. Daily access to nutritious meals further supports students’ physical health and readiness to learn.
Each summer, the majority of San Miguel Academy students maintain or improve their reading levels and return to school better prepared for grade-level work. These outcomes are critical not only for academic success but also for long-term health equity, as educational attainment is closely linked to improved health outcomes, economic mobility, and reduced disparities over time.
A key component of the Summer Scholars Program is San Miguel Academy’s nationally recognized Rowing Program, which serves 100% of students and is one of the largest and most inclusive middle school rowing programs in the country. Rowing provides consistent physical activity that promotes cardiovascular health, strength, and overall wellness, while also reinforcing teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. For students growing up in environments with limited access to safe recreational spaces, the program ensures equitable access to organized athletics and the health benefits they provide.
Equally important, rowing supports mental and emotional well-being. Time on the water offers students a constructive outlet, reduces stress, and fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Participation also opens pathways to opportunity, including admission to competitive high schools, college scholarships, and leadership development experiences, creating a bridge from improved well-being to long-term educational and economic advancement.
