#SchoolPR Insights Blog

ESY programs are more than just an extension of the school year. They’re a lifeline for students who need consistent support to stay on track. For many, a long summer break can mean lost skills—or, at the very least, stalled progress.

But it doesn’t have to be that way! With the right approach, ESY can spur progress with purpose and engage learners in exciting, impactful ways. These programs come in many shapes and sizes, each designed to meet students where they are.

Whether you’re building an ESY model from scratch or refining what you already have, this guide offers practical ideas to help every learner thrive all year long (even during summer break).

Skill maintenance programs

One of the most common ESY models is the skill maintenance program. These programs are designed to help students retain the academic or functional skills they’ve worked hard to build during the school year. Rather than introducing new content, the goal is to prevent learners from regressing as summer break unfolds.

For many students, especially those with learning disabilities or developmental delays, structured support during the summer is absolutely critical. Without it, months of progress can quietly slip away. A typical day might include short literacy sessions, structured routines or opportunities to practice social skills in a familiar environment.

Keeping students connected to what they’ve already learned—through familiar staff, predictable routines and individualized support—helps protect hard-earned gains and ensures they return in the fall ready to move forward, not start over.

Functional life skills programs

For some students, summer support means more than academics; it means practicing real-life routines that promote independence and confidence. These ESY programs focus on functional life skills, from brushing teeth and preparing meals to using public transportation or managing personal schedules.

Programs often take place in smaller settings, or even community-based environments. Students might cook a simple lunch, follow a shopping list at the grocery store or practice conversational skills with peers and staff. Every activity is intentional and tied to an IEP goal.

Instead of a classroom filled with desks, picture a shared kitchen, a simulated apartment or a local park. In these spaces, learning is hands-on and deeply meaningful. The goal? To give students tools they can use every day—not just in school, but in life.

Social-emotional learning programs

For students who struggle with anxiety, peer relationships or regulating their emotions, summer can feel like a long stretch. SEL-focused ESY programs are designed to keep those critical social and emotional skills fresh through structured, supportive experiences.

These programs might include morning check-ins, group games that encourage collaboration or guided conversations about big feelings. Some incorporate art, music, acting or movement as tools for self-expression. Others weave SEL goals into academics through cooperative projects or storytelling.

Importantly, these environments are built around predictability and trust. Students know what to expect each day, which reduces anxiety and supports growth. The consistent presence of caring adults creates a space where students feel seen, heard and safe to try again—even after a tough moment.

The setting is calm, the expectations are clear and relationships take center stage. When students continue to practice emotional awareness and social connection over the summer, they’re more likely to reenter the school year with confidence (and fewer setbacks).

Behavior support and interventions

For some students, summer break can undo months of progress with their behavior. That’s why ESY programs focused on behavior support are so important. They help maintain steady routines, reinforce positive behaviors and prevent unhealthy habits from creeping back up.

These programs aren’t one-size-fits-all. One student might need a quiet space to regroup between activities. Another might rely on a reward chart or visual schedule to stay on track.

Staff are encouraged to use daily check-ins and track behavior in a way that’s tailored to each student’s IEP plan. Small, consistent steps in the right direction will eventually lead to students becoming more independent.

When these students return in the fall, they’re not starting from scratch. They’re picking up right where they left off, feeling stronger, calmer, more in control and ready to keep growing.

Therapy-driven programs

When students receive services like speech therapy, occupational therapy or physical therapy during the school year, a long summer break can interrupt important progress. Therapy-driven ESY programs keep that momentum going.

These programs focus on maintaining essential skills—clear speech, fine motor coordination, physical mobility and more. But it’s not all drills and repetition. A speech therapist might help a student work on articulation through storytelling or role-playing games. An occupational therapist might develop a student’s grip strength through painting or cooking.

The sessions are short, focused and, perhaps most important of all, filled with joy. Students stay connected to the goals in their IEPs, but in ways that feel personalized and purposeful.

With consistent support, students don’t just hold onto their progress. They return to school with greater confidence, ready to keep moving forward.

Project-based learning programs

Some of the most engaging ESY experiences come from project-based learning. These programs combine academics, social skills and creativity into hands-on, student-centered activities that feel more like discovery than summer school.

Instead of worksheets, students might build a community garden, plan a class picnic or create a short play. Along the way, they practice reading, math, communication and teamwork…without even realizing they’re doing it!

These projects allow for flexibility and fun while still targeting IEP goals. A student working on sequencing might follow a recipe. Another developing social skills might collaborate on group artwork.

The best part is, students are engaged, motivated and proud of what they create. They leave summer not just having maintained their skills, but having found new ways to use them.

Hybrid or home-based learning models

Not every student thrives in a traditional classroom. Hybrid or home-based ESY models offer flexibility for families navigating health needs, transportation barriers or sensory sensitivities.

These programs might combine learning packets, virtual check-ins and occasional in-person visits. A teacher could video chat with a student twice a week and adjust activities as needed.

At home, a parent might help with simple routines—like reading together, practicing life skills or completing hands-on assignments tied to IEP goals.

Hybrid learning is personalized, flexible and rooted in strong communication between families and educators. When designed well, it keeps students meaningfully connected to learning, no matter where they are.

Collaborative programs across districts

When resources are stretched thin, collaboration can unlock possibilities that no single district could manage alone. Partnering with nearby districts allows schools to combine staffing, share spaces and design ESY programs that are more dynamic, more inclusive and more sustainable.

Students gain access to a wider range of services—and more chances to grow. Imagine a regional ESY site with expert therapists, diverse peer interactions and enriching activities that feel fresh and exciting. Pooling resources is efficient, but more importantly, it can be completely transformative. Collaboration redefines what’s possible for students who need support the most!

Many paths, one purpose

ESY is far more than summer school. It’s a powerful lifeline that helps students hold on to progress and build confidence for the year ahead. When programs are thoughtful and student-centered, they change lives. Take time to reflect, refine and reimagine what ESY can look like in your district.