Last summer, a group of Center School students transformed an ordinary hallway into their own “Folklore Forest.” Paper lanterns hung from the ceiling. Hand-drawn maps covered the walls.
Students moved between collaborative projects inspired by legends and storytelling traditions from around the world, debating mythical creatures, building creative art pieces, and eagerly sharing ideas with one another long after activities had officially ended for the day.
Isaac, who had started the summer quietly and cautiously, was suddenly volunteering to read aloud during group activities. Jenna became the unofficial leader of her project team, organizing classmates during a collaborative art design challenge. Friendships formed naturally through shared projects, recess fun, and laughter that carried from the classroom into lunch and afternoon activities. Amber said, “This doesn’t feel like school at all, it feels like an adventure”. That kind of engagement is exactly what Center School’s Summer Learning & Enrichment Program is designed to create.
Each year, the program introduces a new immersive theme that connects academics and enrichment through creativity, storytelling, and hands-on exploration. Last summer’s folklore theme sparked imagination and collaboration in unexpected ways. This year, students entering grades 1 through 8 will step into the world of Greek mythology, where myths, heroes, and legendary adventures will inspire everything from literacy activities and creative projects to science exploration, movement, and team-based challenges. While the themes change each summer, the goal remains the same: keeping students engaged, connected, and learning in ways that feel natural and enjoyable.
For many families, summer creates a difficult balance. Parents want their children to enjoy the freedom and energy of the season, while also hoping they maintain the academic momentum built during the school year. Research has consistently shown that students can lose important reading and math skills over the summer months when learning becomes completely disconnected. A parent, Eileen, noted, “K. is excited to return every day. She is meeting so many new friends, but above all, her love for books and stories has increased so much this summer”.
Center School approaches that challenge differently. Rather than recreating a traditional classroom experience, the Summer Learning & Enrichment Program blends purposeful academic instruction with engaging enrichment experiences that keep students actively participating throughout the day.
The morning session focuses on literacy and mathematics instruction in small-group settings where teachers can personalize support, reinforce foundational skills, and encourage students to think critically. Students continue strengthening important academic skills, but the atmosphere feels encouraging and interactive rather than rigid or routine.
During the afternoon session, the atmosphere shifts into exploration and discovery. Students move into hands-on enrichment experiences that incorporate art, science, fitness, movement, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. This year’s Greek mythology theme will weave throughout the program, creating opportunities for storytelling, invention, collaboration, and imaginative thinking that connect learning across the day in meaningful ways.
The result is a summer experience that feels both structured and exciting, one where students continue building academic skills while still fully enjoying the energy, creativity, and connection that make summer memorable.
Students come home excited to talk about what they created, discovered, or accomplished during the day. They return each morning eager to continue projects, reconnect with friends, and participate in whatever challenge comes next. By the end of the program, many students head into the new school year not only academically prepared but also more confident, independent, and enthusiastic about learning itself. That combination of growth and engagement is what continues to make the program so meaningful for Center School families.
Because at its best, summer should do more than simply fill time. It should give students something to look forward to. A place to create, explore, build friendships, and stay curious. At Center School, that experience begins with a theme, grows through relationships and exploration, and stays with students long after summer ends.
Registration is open for Center School’s Summer Learning & Enrichment Program for students entering grades 1–8. To learn more or reserve your child’s spot, visit Center School or contact Tiffany Getz at tgetz@centerschoolpa.org or 215.657.2200.
About Center School
Center School is distinguished by its deeply personalized approach and close-knit academic community, where every student is truly known and supported. Small class sizes foster strong relationships between students and faculty, allowing for meaningful mentorship, individualized instruction, and a learning environment built on connection and engagement.
A defining aspect of the Center School experience is its intensive focus on literacy as the foundation for success across all subject areas. Students receive more than 500 hours annually of targeted literacy instruction, while also engaging in a full academic curriculum that includes math, science, social studies, STEM, and the arts. This intentional emphasis on literacy equips students with the critical thinking, communication, and learning skills needed to thrive academically and beyond.
Center School also blends innovation with intentionality. From technology-integrated classrooms and STEM opportunities to a warm, collaborative culture, the school provides an educational experience that is both forward-thinking and highly personal.
