Birmingham Students Enhance Learning with Unique Intersession Program

Birmingham Students Enhance Learning with Unique Intersession Program

In the heart of Birmingham, a group of dedicated students at Phillips Academy eagerly participates in their fall intersession program, where learning meets fun in unique and engaging ways. Instead of taking a break from their studies, more than half of the fourth graders decided to stay in the classroom, diving deeper into foundational skills like rounding and measurements. This week-long session has brought energy and excitement to the school, making it a special time for growth.

Cooking and Math: A Delicious Combination

The aroma of freshly made pancakes filled the classroom as Ms. Jessica Muhammad’s fourth graders worked diligently, measuring out ingredients and practicing fractions. “What’s two-fourths?” she asked, leading her students through the cooking process while reinforcing important math concepts. “One half!” they chimed back proudly. This combination of cooking and math exemplifies the hands-on learning experiences that have become central to the intersession program. It’s more than just cooking; it’s about applying math to real-world situations, making learning relatable and enjoyable.

For students like Aubree Jones, this approach to education during the break has been both fun and enlightening. “I came here to learn and hang out with my friends. It’s nice to see everyone and do something different,” she shared, spotlighting how social interactions enhance the learning environment. Her classmate, Chloe Coleman, nodded in agreement, emphasizing the importance of creating tasty treats while learning about measurements.

Celebrating Growth and Success

The intersession program, which started in October 2021, has shown impressive results over the last three years. According to recent data, participation surged from about 1,800 students in 2021 to a remarkable 7,000 students this fall. This increase illustrates a growing awareness of the benefits that these focused learning sessions can provide.

A report by the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama highlighted significant improvements in academic performance among those who participated in the program. For instance, third graders who engaged in intersession saw an average gain of 22 points in their math scores on the state ACAP test, compared to 13 points for their peers who didn’t participate. This trend shows that the intersession isn’t just a way to pass the time; it’s making a measurable difference in students’ learning outcomes.

Positive Feedback from Educators

Ms. Muhammad is among about 40 passionate teachers at Phillips Academy fully committed to these intersession periods. She is proud of her students’ progress, noting that last year, a staggering 79% of her class achieved proficiency in the ACAP assessments. “These intersessions really help our students to see that they can get ahead,” she reflected, highlighting the vital role these sessions play in combating learning loss.

Phillips Academy has embraced this model with open arms. Principal Emeka Nzeocha noted that the school has seen a rise in participation, as parents and students alike recognize the value of extra instructional time. He mentioned that engaging students during breaks keeps their minds active and not just academically but socially as well.

The Future of Intersession Learning

While this year’s shift to only two intersession periods still allows for significant academic involvement, educators express concerns about funding challenges ahead. As federal funds that have supported these programs begin to dwindle, there is a sense of urgency in securing resources to maintain the momentum. In a climate where funding has often been scarce, Birmingham City Schools have effectively leveraged over $12 million to develop and sustain these invaluable learning opportunities.

As Birmingham’s educational landscape evolves, community leaders and educators continue to innovate ways to close achievement gaps. Mark Dixon from the A+ Education Partnership lauded the district’s efforts, suggesting that programs like these reveal possibilities for other schools grappling with similar challenges.

A Bright Path Forward

Ultimately, the intersession initiative at Phillips Academy exemplifies how education can be made engaging while addressing needs that emerged during the pandemic. It’s a time where students not only sharpen their academic skills but also create lasting memories, allowing them to learn in a positive, nurturing environment. As they mix, measure, and learn, these fourth graders are carving a bright path for their futures, one delicious pancake at a time!