Summer Program

Over the summer, the North Branch Library (Madison Avenue) becomes the base-of-operations for our academic enrichment program. This program is offered to all First Serve Bridgeport participants, ages 6-18. Generally, the younger players attend in the morning, while the older children attend in the early evening. A combination of tennis play and academics is the basis of the equation. Pizza is served during the break time of the early evening program. Players do school-work together, eat together, and play tennis together … all of which enables strong relationships.

The weekly regimen is built to combat the “summer slide” that often happens with students over their summer months, where the decreased academic practice and focus can cause a drop-of-the-bar with respect to fundamental, as well as specialized skills.

There is both a morning offering and an early evening offering. The summer program rests upon several variables:

• Students participate in fun and purposeful games and activities that build teamwork, as well as enhance reading and math skills;

• Students are encouraged to get a library card, and volunteers help students find appropriate books to take home to read every week.

• High school students receive quiet study time and access to computers at the library. Tutoring is available, as needed, to ensure completion of summer reading and math packets, before the first day of school.

• Incoming seniors receive individualized guidance with their college applications, including writing their personal statement. College selection is discussed, and students review various colleges and universities to determine fit.