Summer Resources for MAS Families: Reading, Meals, and STEM

As families begin planning for summer break, several free and affordable programs are available to help students stay active and engaged throughout the season. MAS households recently received information from the school office about opportunities that include free summer lunches for children and teens, a free literacy program for kindergarten through outgoing 8th grade students, and affordable STEM camps for older students interested in hands-on learning. 

These programs give students meaningful ways to continue learning, build skills, and stay connected during the summer months. Here’s what you need to know:

Free Summer Lunch Program

Bernalillo County is offering free lunches for children and teens at multiple community locations throughout the summer. Meals are available at no cost for youth ages 1–18.

Learn more: https://www.bernco.gov/community.../summer-lunch-program

Free Summer Reading Program For K–8th Graders

The State of New Mexico is offering free literacy instruction and intervention for kindergarteners through outgoing 8th graders.

Students receive small-group instruction, with four students per group, so they can get more individualized support. The program runs for four weeks, with four hours of reading instruction each day.

Learn more: https://www.literacy.nm.gov

Affordable Summer STEM Camps

Explora offers week-long summer camps for students who want to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math through hands-on activities and creative projects. 

Camps are available for students in grades 5–12, with registration based on the grade the student most recently completed. Some camps are offered at a reduced materials-fee-only cost, and financial assistance is available for all summer programs by request.

Learn more: https://www.explora.us/programs/camps/tween-teen-camp

We encourage all MAS families and households to take advantage of these programs to help students stay healthy and engaged all summer long.