Last week, IIT Boeing Scholars Academy Program Director Marya Spont presented at the Illinois Association of College Admission Counseling’s District Seminar, a professional development opportunity for 120 counselors from Chicago and South Suburban high schools.

Spont’s presentation, “Connecting Kids to College Through Summer Learning,” addressed how pursuing summer learning opportunities on college campuses can be a great way for high school students to become exposed to college life, learn about potential majors and careers, and overcome the summer learning loss known to influence long-term achievement and attainment among low socioeconomic status youth, in particular. After reviewing recent research on summer learning, Spont discussed ways that high school and college counselors can connect to better serve their constituents and institutions. Attendees took away information about various resources, existing partnerships, and specific programs, including those at Elmhurst College (as presented by Christine Grenier, associate director of admissions at Elmhurst), IIT, and other universities.

In related news, the IIT Boeing Scholars Academy will be part of Chicago’s “Summer of Learning” badging initiative, newly announced by the Mayor’s Office.