INDIANA — As the academic year draws to a close, Indiana education leaders are inviting families to stem “summer slide” by enrolling in the 2026 Summer Learning Labs. The free, five-week program is designed to bolster reading and math skills for students entering grades 1 through 9, and is offered to Lawrence and Monroe County students.
Supported by a partnership between the Indiana Department of Education, The Mind Trust, and United Way of Central Indiana, the initiative expects to serve nearly 12,000 students across the state this summer.
The program has become a cornerstone of Indiana’s strategy to recover pandemic-era learning losses. According to data from previous years, participants have consistently demonstrated double-digit gains in both reading and math proficiency.
The labs utilize a high-quality curriculum paired with small-group instruction, providing academic intensity that traditional summer camps often lack, while still incorporating afternoon enrichment activities such as sports, arts, and field trips to keep students engaged.
Education experts warn that without academic engagement, students can lose up to two months of grade-level equivalency over the summer—a phenomenon known as “summer slide.” This gap often disproportionately affects lower-income families who may lack access to expensive private tutoring or specialized camps.
The Summer Learning Labs aim to close this gap by providing:
- No-Cost Access: The program is entirely free for all participating families.
- Targeted Growth: Curriculum is specifically aligned with Indiana’s academic standards to ensure students are ready for the next grade level in the fall.
- Holistic Support: Many locations provide free meals (breakfast and lunch) and transportation to ensure there are no barriers to attendance.
The expansion of these labs comes as Indiana intensifies its focus on literacy. With the recent implementation of state-wide “Science of Reading” requirements, the Summer Learning Labs serve as a critical safety net for younger students who may be struggling to meet new reading proficiency benchmarks before reaching the third grade.
How to Enroll
Enrollment is currently open, but spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Parents and guardians can find a list of participating schools and community centers, as well as registration forms, by visiting www.thesummerlearninglabs.com
For more info, check out the websites of The Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence County and Monroe County.
Locations are available throughout Central Indiana and in several regional hubs across the state. Families are encouraged to sign up early to secure a spot in their preferred neighborhood location.
