While we were deeply disappointed not to be able to gather in person this summer, we had a great time engaging with students from home and seeing how they used their Summer Learning Kits to continue to learn and grow through the summer. Although virtual, we still kept the magic of Summer Academy by gathering together at Big Meet & Greet weekly, sending a bit of that magic directly into families’ homes, and regularly checking in with families and students.

View More Videos From Summer Academy 2020

– HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER INTERNSHIPS –

Each summer, Student U rising high school Juniors and Seniors intern at various local nonprofits and businesses that align with their career interests. Virtual internship placements this summer included DataWorks NC, WinSPIRE, Cisco, and Student U.

Evaluations and Research Coordinator Interns at Student U worked alongside DPS Foundation to conduct interviews and research to learn how families, students, and educators have experienced this challenging time in terms of education. They helped us raise awareness across Durham about the opportunities as well as the challenges that come with digital and remote learning. Hear from our interns about their experience.

America Lopez-Montoya, a rising high school senior, completed DataWork’s business data update which will be reflected in The Neighborhood Compass later this summer. America also helped them explore a digital index of deed records, identifying those with racially-restrictive language.Read more about America’s internship.

– PARENT AND STUDENT HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP SESSIONS –

Student U families participated in five weeks of parent and student group meetings (virtual, of course) to learn from each other about healthy relationships, sexual health, and communication. They asked great questions, were transparent with each other, and even took time out to laugh together.

• Students overwhelmingly said that the program was fun and engaging and that they would share what they learned with friends and peers. A few people said their favorite part of the program was talking to others and getting a chance to connect with their peers to learn alongside them.
• Parents expressed that they learned new information each session that they felt is helpful as they think about conversations they want to have with their children about healthy relationships.

 

– THE 2020 SAM KIMBERG AWARD GOES TO BRIA DAVENPORT! –

Sam was our founder Dan Kimberg’s grandfather and the man that inspired the values and joy that are at the center of Student U. He is remembered and honored each year in our Sam Kimberg Award. This award is given to one Student U community member who has brought the most joy to our community. This year we are thrilled to announce the winner is Bria Davenport, who will also be transiting to our full-time team as our new Middle School Program Coordinator!