Throughout the halls and classrooms of Covert Avenue School, approximately 450 Elmont School District scholars continued to enhance their knowledge during the Summer Academic and Enrichment Program.

This free annual program, held on Mondays through Thursdays from July 7-24, provided academic and enrichment activities for students in Pre-K through fifth grade. Scholars received a review of the previous school year, as well as preparation for the upcoming year. Along with academics, they engaged in hands-on STEAM, art, music, physical education and social-emotional learning activities. Each day featured two enrichment activities, specially designed so every grade level enjoys a unique and meaningful experience. This year, the Pre-K, kindergarten and first grade scholars moved to the rhythm in Cardio Music and got creative in STEAM Art. They also participated in a Project-Based Learning Model Garden, growing grass, sunflowers, marigolds and Lima beans in the classrooms. Second and third graders built teamwork and problem-solving skills through robotics and explored a new language in Spanish. Fourth and fifth graders flew drones and dived into real-world skills by learning about the stock market.

            Throughout the program, scholars also enjoyed a Spirit Week, “Elmont Road Trip,” with each day focusing on a different location in the United States and themed dress-up opportunities. The first stop was Washington, D.C., and scholars were encouraged to wear red, white and blue or the American flag. The remaining stops were Florida, California and their hometown of Elmont. New to the program this year were exciting field trip opportunities. Third, fourth and fifth graders attended a fun-filled bowling trip, while those in grades K–2 viewed the “Ocean Paradise” show at the Cradle of Aviation. Additionally, on July 10, all scholars took part in an in-school field trip featuring Mad Science, where they experienced science demonstrations with bubbles and dry ice.

All grade levels participated in the STEAM Read Aloud Challenge, which combines STEAM and Project-Based Learning components. This year’s theme is air travel, and the scholars read “Rosie Revere, Engineer” by Andrea Beaty and “Violet the Pilot” by Steve Breen. They also made wooden airplanes or focused on other air travel, like hot air balloons.

The students displayed their STEAM Read Aloud Challenge projects, provide robotics and drone demonstrations, and showcased their artwork at the Summer Showcase and Art Exhibit on July 23. The Summer Academic and Enrichment Program is led by Principals Rita Johnson and Samantha Magaraci, and Assistant Principal Arielle Parisi.

Click here to view the Scholars Enhance Academics and Participate in Enrichment Activities During Annual Summer Program slideshow.

Date Added: 7/24/2025