SUMMER LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Frequently Asked Questions

What is the time commitment?

Students are with us from Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm. At the beginning of the summer program, we have a required overnight retreat for several days.

Will my child do homework this summer?

Yes. Our seminars frequently have homework assignments or research, and we encourage summer participants to take ownership over their education here.

Is it OK if my child misses some days of the summer program, or shows up late, or leave early?

Generally speaking, no. Of course, a few exceptions make sense for those very special family events or a medical appointment. Students are allowed a maximum of two excused absences during the duration of the summer program. Students who arrive after 10:00am will be asked to return to their homes unless prior arrangements have been made with the Program Director. A consistent group of youth in the program is important for community building, and the summer goes by very quickly. If you believe your child will miss any portion of the program, please talk to the Program Director in advance.

What if my child is sick?

If your son or daughter is sick, please call us. It is the parent’s responsibility to call in and let us know. Parents entrust us with their children for a significant portion of the day; so if your child will be absent for any reason, we need to know that you are informed of your child’s whereabouts.

What if my child does not show up at the summer program?

If we have not heard from you, we will call you at home or work to be certain of your child’s whereabouts. If your child misses more than two days of the program, he/she may not be able to return to the program. In that case, the Program Director will communicate with the parent about the available options.

Where are the permission forms and the paperwork?

Most of the permission forms, applications and other paperwork is available on our website. In addition, you will receive various forms upon your child’s acceptance into the program. Please make sure to complete all forms and mail them back to The City School by the deadlines indicated. (The medical form does not require a separate physical exam at the doctor’s office -- just a record of your child’s immunizations.)

What events am I invited to this summer?

You are welcome to visit the Summer Leadership Program at almost any time; simply call the Program Director to us know. In addition to the regular weekly schedule, we have several special events that we especially encourage you to attend. Check the online calendar for dates and details. We look forward to having parents and guardians visit us and get involved as much as possible.

Does the student receive a stipend?

Yes, each student receives a small cash stipend over the summer for their active participation in the program. We disburse stipends each Friday afternoon. Some students need their stipends for spending money; others choose to donate a portion of their stipend back to the Summer Leadership Program.

How does SLP handle transportation?

We provide the students with a weekly bus/train MBTA combo pass during July and August. Students who do not need an MBTA pass can waive this transportation subsidy.

What about student parties?

It is important for students to enjoy social time together outside of the program. However, we do not want students hosting parties in your homes if you are not present and involved. If you have any questions about an invitation your child receives, please call the Program Director. For events sponsored by The City School, we always send a notice home.

What is The Community Event?

This is an evolving concept. In years past, the summer students put on an evening talent show and raffle to raise money for future Summer Leadership Programs. Recently, students have decided to organize a Youth Speak Out and Rally in response to violence in the city. They have done outreach to other youth groups, to residents of the community, to local businesses and politicians, and to the media to get the message across that youth across the city are doing positive things to prevent violence. They have held workshops, made food, and created visual and spoken word art pieces to convey their message.

What is the tuition for the Summer Leadership Program?

There is no formal tuition. However, the City School invests $5,000 for every student that attends the Summer Leadership Program. With that, we ask each parent to consider the amount of financial support they can provide over the course of the summer. Some parents can contribute $50, others have given up to $5,000. We will ask you to pledge your contribution upon your child's acceptance to the program, and ask that you pay half of your pledge before the program start date, and the remainder over the summer. We accept checks, Master Card and Visa.

How will I know how well my child did in the program?

First of all, if you have questions about your child's participation as the summer program is in progress, feel free to contact the Program Director. We are always glad to talk student progress and future goals. Your participation helps us work more effectively. At the end of the summer your child will receive a letter of evaluation from his or her seminar teacher. Many of our students use these evaluation letters as part of their college and job applications.

What does The City School offer my child after graduation from the program in August?

Our mission is about long-term leadership development. We want to see our summer graduates develop and succeed, so we stay in touch to provide support for the future. Although nothing is required after graduation in the summer, we offer a strong Graduates Program that provides a wide range of activities and support. We send summer graduates our periodic newsletter, and offer them special retreats and activities through the Graduates Program, which runs during the school year. When we hear about other quality programs and resources, we refer graduates so they can take part. We also run and offer other programs to summer graduates and high school teens: Youth Outreach Weekends, the Prison Empowerment Project, and Community Courses. After the summer, there are many paid and unpaid leadership opportunities for graduates of the summer program. They can apply to be part-time student staff for our programs, to serve on the Graduates Council, to be a Youth Student Leader, assist us with recruitment, and much more. There are plenty of ways to stay involved!

Other Questions?

Please call the Director, Justice Williams at (617) 822-3075 x16, or email her at justice@thecityschool.org

THANK YOU!

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