Summer Day

Promoting dynamic summer learning and enrichment

Before Summer Day, I was struggling with some subjects, like language arts and social studies. But now it’s making a difference, and my favorite part is the learning part of Summer Day. When I go back to school, I will know what I need to know.”  – Samarja

Students can lose two months of reading skills and two-and-a-half months of math skills each summer. No student can afford to lose that much education. Summer Day focuses on creative academic learning, supplemented by arts and enrichment programming to combat summer learning loss.

Academics, Arts, Enrichment

Summer Day is a bridge—from when school ends to when it starts again in the fall.

Summer Day is a safe place for students to learn and grow. Not only do students sharpen their academic skills, but they also get creative through music, dance, art, and Peace Club meditation.

Career Prep

Transitioning from middle school to high school can be tough for students, which is why our Career Prep program is here to help. Students entering grades 7–9 exercise their leadership and career exploration skills at classes just for them at Summer Day.

2025 Summer Day Program Details

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

The program runs from the end of June to the beginning of August.
Exact dates will be updated in early 2025.

Location

Gratz Center

126 E. Chestnut St., Chicago, IL, 60611

Eligibility

Open to students entering grades 1-9 in the 2025-2026 school year.

For more information, please contact Program Manager Mark Dennison at mdennison@chicagolights.org / 312.274.3828.

Applications will open in April 2025

Make a difference with Chicago Lights.

Volunteers make our life-changing work possible and help our students thrive.

Volunteer

Build brighter futures. Change lives. Volunteer with Chicago Lights!

Invest in changing lives with us.

Every dollar you give goes directly toward empowering youth in need.