ThinkStretch is designed to be implemented by a full school or learning community. Data collected on four separate implementation models demonstrates that student achievement, as measured by percent of students achieving gold medal completion, is greatest in full school implementation.
Implementation by one grade level in a school, by only Title I students, and by only parent purchase reduce the level of completion dramatically. By not involving all students, summer learning stigma is not reduced nor is a peer earning environment created.
Key elements of the ThinkStretch program – kick-off assembly, playground sessions, parent education and award ceremony – are much less effective when only select students are involved.
Gold Medal achievement increases by 43% from the 1st to 2nd summer
Students’ desire to complete the program increases after the first fall award ceremony. Students now trust that summer efforts will be rewarded in the fall. Because the medals and teacher recognition are a desirable and significant token of achievement, a dramatic increase in gold medal achievement is demonstrated from year one to year two.
The data reflects the efforts of a Title I School.
Title I schools match non-Title I school Gold Medal Achievement by second summer.
Title I schools achieve an average turn-in rate of 40-45% the first summer. However, by the second summer, Title I schools achieve a 55-60% gold medal rate. This rate is equivalent to the first summer turn-in rate non-Title I schools. Special attention paid to the location of summer playground study sessions, use of Title I funds to provide summer reading material or book exchange, and pro-active outreach for parent education have increased the gold medal rates for Title I schools.
The above data reflects the efforts of a Title I School. The chart below reflects a non-Title I school.
