Charlene M. Russell-Tucker Commissioner | Connecticut Department of Education
This summer, over 1,600 students in Connecticut are benefiting from a state-funded program that offers free summer enrichment opportunities. The initiative is focused on the Greater Hartford Region and targets students attending schools of choice. It aims to support their social, emotional, and academic development.
“This initiative offers students the opportunity to continue learning, exploring, and building connections beyond the traditional school year,” said Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker. “This summer programming reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the whole child by investing in student engagement and enriching the experiences for those participating in Connecticut’s school choice programs."
The program involves six interdistrict magnet schools and five Open Choice school districts that received more than $2.3 million in grants. These funds facilitate free summer programs combining academics with fun activities both inside and outside classrooms. The programs offer hands-on learning experiences, creative activities, leadership opportunities, and local field trips with themes like STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), visual and performing arts, and global citizenship.
RSCO Director Robin Cecere highlighted the broader benefits of these initiatives: “This program offers more than just academic enrichment—it’s a chance for students to discover new interests, build skills, and form lasting connections with peers from different communities,” she said. “It’s a great complement to our school choice program and unique opportunity for families to continue their children’s educational journey into the summer."
These no-cost programs operate full days for five days a week with transportation and meals provided at no charge to participants. The duration ranges from one week to six weeks between June 30 and August 21.
RSCO serves as an information hub for Connecticut families about school choice options in the Greater Hartford Region. Families can apply through RSCO to attend free public schools outside their home district including magnet schools with specialized curricula themes, Open Choice schools across 26 districts, and regional technical high schools.
For further details on RSCO's school choice program visit ChooseYourSchool.org.
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