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Summer Discovery

Summer Discovery — funded by the Ballmer Group and powered by United Way for Southeastern Michigan — provides free high-quality academic programming for students in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.

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Fun Learning Experiences

Through Summer Discovery, students explore their interests, engage in their communities and discover their potential. This free program provides fun learning experiences to support children in their educational journey and life beyond the classroom.

How It Works

Impact of Summer Discovery

increase in students demonstrating proficiency in English language arts

increase in students demonstrating proficiency in math

of families felt that Summer Discovery prepared their child for the upcoming school year

of families felt Summer Discovery enhanced their child's personal development

Summer Discovery – Fun
Most summer schools are like school, but this is different. They took apart apples, made pies, etc. Amazing for a five year old!

Parent from an Oakland County Charter School

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Summer Discovery – Cost Effective
[Summer Discovery] is very cost effective. This is where [my kids] need to be, with people they know and where I know they can prosper.

Parent from an Oakland County Charter School

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Fight Learning Loss

Studies show that students can lose up to two months of grade-level equivalency in math skills during the summer, with reading comprehension also taking a hit. For younger students, these losses can accumulate over time, leading to broader achievement gaps as they progress through school. Summer learning loss disproportionately affects children from low-income families, who may lack access to educational resources and enrichment opportunities during the break.

Summer Discovery directly addresses this issue by offering robust academic and enrichment activities that keep students engaged and learning throughout the summer. By blending hands-on projects, creative exploration and social-emotional learning, the program helps children retain and build on the skills they have learned during the school year.

Read More at Detroit Free Press

Information for Providers

If you are a school or community-based organization interested in hosting a Summer Discovery program NEXT SUMMER (Summer 2026), we have information for you to start preparing now.

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