Hood River County School District (HRCSD) is expanding its summer learning offerings in 2025 after being notified that it is eligible to apply for $564,000 in state grant funding to support summer programs. This latest funding, announced following Governor Tina Kotek's signing of two bipartisan education bills, will allow the school district to serve more students, expand programming, and offset the use of current Student Investment Account (SIA) funds.

Governor Kotek signed House Bills 2007 and 5047, securing $35 million in state funding for summer reading programs this year and establishing long-term support for summer learning through 2027. The legislation prioritizes evidence-based literacy instruction and resources for school districts with the highest needs.

“This state grant gives us the flexibility to increase access to high-quality summer learning experiences,” said HRCSD Superintendent Bill Newton. “It enables us to reach more students while preserving key school district resources.”

HRCSD is planning at least three weeks of summer learning in July at Mid Valley Elementary School and Hood River Valley High School, offering a blend of academic support, enrichment, and social-emotional learning. Families of invited students will receive invitations later this spring.

In addition to the district-run summer school, the Migrant Education Program will also offer expanded summer learning, funded through a federal grant:

• June: Language and math enrichment at Mid Valley Elementary for students in the Migrant Education Program
• July: Continued partnership with HRCSD for three weeks of joint summer school
• August: Additional sessions of language and math enrichment for students in the Migrant Education Program
   

The school district will also provide various options for Extended School Year (ESY) services in June, July, and August for eligible students as determined by their Individualized Education Program (IEP) to maintain necessary skills over summer break.

HRCSD is also exploring ways to support the transition to kindergarten for the youngest students in the Hood River County community. More information will be shared soon.

“These summer learning opportunities—made possible through state and grant funding—represent a shared commitment to student growth and academic recovery,” said Superintendent Newton. “We are grateful to Governor Kotek and the Oregon Legislature for prioritizing literacy, equity, and learning beyond the school year.”

For more information and updates, visit www.hoodriver.k12.or.us and follow HRCSD on social media. Read the Governor’s press release and watch the video of the signing ceremony.