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Announcing the 2026 CREC Summer Learning Adventure!

A colorful playground with various playful structures and equipment surrounded by a wooded area.

At CREC Magnet Schools, learning doesn’t stop when the school year ends. We are thrilled to share an inside look at the CREC Summer Learning Adventure (SLA)—a free, immersive four-week program designed for our rising 1st through 4th-grade students!

Running from July 6th to July 31st, this year’s academy is packed with engaging, hands-on experiences designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

A Sneak Peek at the Adventure

Our dedicated CREC teachers and staff have designed a vibrant curriculum that connects directly to our schools' unique magnet themes. Each week brings a brand-new world to explore:

  • Week 1 (Science): Exploring the Forces and Energy in Our World – A hands-on look at physics and natural forces.
  • Week 2 (Science): Exploring the Galaxy: A Journey Through Space – An out-of-this-world cosmic exploration.
  • Weeks 3 & 4 (Social Studies): Global Citizens Explore the World – A deep dive into cultures, history, and community.

Balanced Days: Academics Meet Enrichment

SLA is designed to support the whole child. Morning sessions will focus on sharpening essential reading, writing, and math skills to keep students ahead of the summer slide.

In the afternoons, the fun kicks into high gear! Students will choose from a variety of integrated enrichment activities led by CREC staff—blending their science and social studies lessons with the arts, music, technology, and physical activities.

Exciting Field Experiences

Learning will also take place outside the classroom! We are proud to partner with fantastic local organizations to bring our students unforgettable field experiences, including trips and activities with:

  • The Connecticut Science Center
  • The Connecticut Museum of Culture and History
  • The CT Star Lab
  • A fun afternoon of bowling!

Program Details & Locations

To make the program accessible, CREC provides students with breakfast, lunch, and centralized bus transportation. The adventure will take place across three of our wonderful campus sites, hosting students from various home schools:

  • University of Hartford Magnet School Site (Hosting UHMS, Academy of Aerospace & Engineering Elementary, and Discovery Academy)
  • Academy of International Studies Elementary Site (Hosting Academy of International Studies Elementary, GEHMS, and Montessori Magnet)
  • Ana Grace Academy of the Arts Site (Hosting Ana Grace Academy, Reggio Magnet School, and Museum Academy)

⚠️ Please Note: Registration for the 2026 Summer Learning Adventure closed on May 22nd, and spots have been filled. Registered families will be contacted by their SLA coordinators by the end of May with welcome details.

We are incredibly proud to offer programs like the Summer Learning Adventure to enrich our students' lives and build stronger communities. Thank you to our amazing CREC families, teachers, and staff for making this summer a roaring success before it even begins!

Questions about the program? Feel free to reach out to our team at crecschools@crec.org.