KBTC Kids Summer Learning Overview
Purpose: Our goal is to promote equitable and thriving communities in Pierce County by supporting children and families in underserved populations with a variety of skills ranging from Early Literacy resources for linguistically diverse families, to Informational Text through the Molly of Denali PBS KIDS show, STEM through our very popular Odd Squad Camp, and SEL resources.
Molly of Denali camp program
Through this activity, students will develop Informational text skills to help them learn how to read a map, follow a recipe, and engage with websites. Informational texts are supplemental texts related to the other subjects that students are studying. When reading a fictional story, students focus on elements like plot, character, and conflict. When learning through informational texts, they examine items, such as illustrations and captions.
Tacoma Housing Authority – mentorship and student support
For 10 weeks this summer, KBTC will have a daily presence at 3 Tacoma Housing Authority properties, the Hillside Terrace, Bergerson Terrace, and Salishan communities where we interact, engage, and deliver activities to pre-school, elementary and middle school-age children.
Odd Squad Agent camp
The Odd Squad Agent camp combines SEL concepts with PBS Kids Odd Squad camp content to help kids develop problem solving skills, teamwork skills, and math confidence while activating and engaging their imaginations.
Odd Squad Agent camp is a one-hour, twice a week, 3-4 weeks long, virtual, hybrid-model that offers a blend of a virtual instructor and an in-person instructor who will support students on-site during activities.
Professional Development and SEL Resources
While we know that relationships are key, we also know that there is a need for quality educational resources that engage kids and spark fun in learning. PBS LearningMedia is an online repository of state-standard aligned curriculum, lesson plans, videos, and instructional supports that are free and available to anyone.
We are partnering with Tacoma Public Library to offer Professional Development workshops to the greater community on how to use PBS LearningMedia resources in classrooms, informal educational settings and even to support their own child’s learning. Attendees will also be guided through researching SEL resources during the workshops.
Community Outreach:
Salishan Summer Bash - KBTC, alongside other community partners, participated in the Salishan community event to celebrate the end of the school year and connect with the community over music, ice cream, and many resources.
Out-of-school Summer Learning - KBTC will also participate in the Out-of-school Summer Learning week by supporting the Department of Health vaccination efforts at the Henry T. Schatz Boys and Girls Club.
National Night Out – This event to be held in August is another opportunity to strengthen our connection with the East Tacoma community by providing SEL and safety educational materials for families, in addition to SEL resources and hands on activities.
