Summer Learning Program

a large group of children, more than 100, pose for a photo outside in the summer

Not too often do you hear about a children's chorus solving math problems, cooking eggs Benedict, or learning the science behind fireworks! Yet, each summer, more than 100 Chester children do that and more during our five-week Summer Learning Program (SLP).

Held at Swarthmore College, the SLP aims to decrease summer learning loss, build academic and social skills, and, most importantly, give our children a summer to remember.

In addition to music and math, the full-day, free program immerses our children in: reading, science, art, swimming, cooking, photography, and more.

And Fridays are meant for even more fun with outdoor BBQs, lawn games, and field trips.

The SLP culminates with summer concerts and exhibitions of student work, including photography, art, and science.

Program Highlights:

  • Free program
  • Full-day (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.)
  • Round-trip transportation
  • Meals provided (breakfast, lunch, snacks)
  • Classes are taught by full-time CCC staff, college professors, elementary and high school teachers, college students and recent college graduates.

Support the Summer Learning Program

  • The SLP is an integral component of the Chorus, with more than $400,000 dedicated to its success.
  • For five weeks, children receive round-trip transportation, meals, field trips, individualized instruction, and much more – at no cost to families.
  • Nearly 60 temporary staff are hired who provide our children with hands-on instruction meant to instill interest, excitement, and a love of learning. 
Donate Now
young boy conducts a science experiment alongside a college student and college staff member

Students in fifth, sixth, and seventh grades study biology, chemistry, and physics alongside Swarthmore College faculty, staff and students in college science labs. 

young girl uses a magnifying glass to look closely at a plant outside

Third- and fourth-grade students participate in a plant sciences course to learn more about the world around them, in partnership with The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College.

two high school girls look through the lens of a camera outside

Older children in the CCC can choose electives during the SLP, including photography.

a woman reads a book alongside a third grade boy.

Four days per week in the summer, all third-grade children spend an hour reading with a community volunteer to practice reading skills and to develop a love of reading.

a young boy floats in a pool while being held by a swim instructor

Third and fourth-grade children receive swim instruction to learn critical life-saving water skills. This is often their first formal swim instruction.  

a high school girl dyes fabric in an art studio

An elective, art offers children the opportunity to express themselves through a variety of techniques, including drawing, printmaking, and sculpting. 

Students in fifth, sixth, and seventh grades study biology, chemistry, and physics alongside Swarthmore College faculty, staff and students in college science labs. 

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