Think Together's Community Event Brings 2,000 Learning Kits for Students in California

Empowering Summer Learning: Think Together Builds Classroom Kits

In a remarkable display of community spirit, Think Together, a dedicated division of Think Education, hosted its third annual "Think Together, Build Together" event. This initiative, held in Santa Ana, California, brought together generous donors, volunteers, and local partners to create a substantial impact on summer learning for students statewide.

A Collaborative Effort for Student Success

This year's event focused on assembling more than 2,000 classroom kits, aimed at facilitating hands-on academic and enrichment activities in Think Together's summer programs. The collaboration resulted in the successful raising of $160,000, which financed the creation of these crucial kits. The support came from various local organizations, including the Assistance League of Tustin, Santa Ana Rotary, Topgolf, and several others.

This annual gathering has transformed into a signature volunteer event, encouraging corporate partners, community members, and supporters in their shared goal of fostering educational growth. Tracy Hernandez, a member of Think Together’s board of directors, emphasized the need for community involvement, saying, "If anyone's thinking about getting involved or supporting Think Together, you know what I'd say? Just do it! We need students to be well supported and inspired to be the best they can be as they grow up into the future."

Addressing the Issue of Learning Loss

Research has indicated that students often experience significant learning loss during extended breaks, particularly in subjects such as mathematics and early literacy. Many students regress in their academic abilities without structured enrichment, which can lead to increased re-teaching needs and wider achievement gaps once they return to school. Think Together’s summer model effectively combines academic support with enriching opportunities, including STEM activities, arts education, sports, and real-world learning experiences.

The assembled classroom kits provide necessary materials, enabling these enriching experiences and counteracting the detrimental effects of summer learning loss. Randy Barth, the Founder and CEO of Think Education, highlighted the critical role of summer education in maintaining student momentum. He stated, "These kits help ensure students return to school ready to learn, not needing to catch up."

A Growing Impact

Last summer, Think Together proudly served over 26,000 students across 270 school sites, managing programs designed to keep students engaged in learning during a period when academic regression is often observed. By integrating both academic and enrichment components, the organization helps to create a stimulating educational environment.

For over 25 years, Think Together has been dedicated to partnering with schools and communities, devoted to enhancing educational opportunities for children. Their ongoing mission revolves around creating innovative academic solutions that significantly alter the educational landscape for hundreds of thousands of students in California annually.

In conclusion, the annual "Think Together, Build Together" event goes beyond the assembly of classroom kits; it embodies a community-wide commitment to shaping a better future for the students. With continued support and involvement, Think Together aims to foster an enriching learning landscape that prepares students for success, now and in the future.

For further information or to learn more about how to support Think Together, visit Think Together's website or contact them directly at (888) 485-THINK.