Strong participation and steady attendance helped Excelsior Springs School District’s summer learning program exceed expectations this year.

The Board of Education recently approved the district’s 2026 Summer School Program Evaluation, which reviewed participation, programming and overall outcomes from the 17-day program. Summer School Co-Director Anneliese Gould explained 986 students participated, just shy of the district’s goal of at least 1,000.

“I feel like we did a really good job of hitting that mark,” she said.

Summer programming combined academic support with enrichment opportunities across grade levels. According to the district’s evaluation, students needing additional support received targeted instruction in English language arts and mathematics, while other activities included project-based learning, hands-on science experiences, community partnerships and educational field trips.

Gould noted 452 students enrolled at the elementary level, with daily participation remaining aro…