Promising Scholars Summer Program

The Promising Scholars summer program offers students a fun, free, and academically enriching experience this summer.

Each summer camp will offer a mix of classroom learning; science, technology, and art activities; physical activity, and other fun experiences, with a full-day schedule for rising kindergarteners through grade 8 and a half-day for rising grades 9 to 12.

Each school will have enrichment activities weekly, with a lot of summer fun planned, including pickleball, a mobile planetarium, dance, theatre, science exploration, art, robotics, and a lot more, with multiple visits from local organizations and enrichment partners.

Although academic work will not be graded, elementary and middle school students will have an opportunity to get caught up academically before the school year begins.
Dual enrollment classes are offered for high school students.

Promising Scholars Returns June 3 to July 2

Get ready for Summer 2027! Promising Scholars will be held June 3 to July 2.

Details & Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Dates

Dates for Summer 2027 will be posted.

Promising Scholars Hours

Rising Kindergarten: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Elementary School: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Middle School:  9 a.m.-4 p.m.
High School: 7 a.m.-12 p.m.

Transportation

Bus transportation will be available for students.

In May, bus route information will be available at the Find My Bus Stop summer link.
- Please note, this link will be active until late May.

Contact the MNPS Family Information Center at (615) 259-4636 if you need help. Remember to be at your stop 10 minutes before pickup time.

What time can I drop my child off?

For families who plan on dropping their child off at school, students will be allowed in the building at the following times:

Rising Kindergarten: 7:45 a.m.
Elementary School: 7:45 a.m. 
Middle School: 8:45 a.m. 
High School: 6:45 a.m.

* Some sites will provide after-care.
*All students must be picked up at the end times listed above.

What types of activities will my child participate in?

Each Promising Scholars sites for rising K-8th grade students will feature a mix of classroom learning; science, technology, and art activities; physical activity, and other fun experiences. High school students will participate in exciting and engaging experiences revolving around college and career readiness and ACT prep. Credit recovery will also be available for high school students.

Will students work on subjects and areas specific to their individual needs?

Yes, all students will receive RTI (Response to Intervention).

Will there be a nurse to support medication and injury/illness? 

Yes. Each site will have a nurse available for support with illness, injury, and medication administration. Medication administration forms are located at each Promising Scholars site. Please see the lead administrator at your site if your child has doctor-ordered medication that needs to be taken during program times.

Will schools still provide lunch for the public?

All Promising Scholars site will provide breakfast and lunch to students.

Will my rising Kindergarten and 7th grade students be able to participate without an updated immunization certificate? 

Yes, but they will be required to have their records updated before the 2025-2026 school year. Families are encouraged to fax, email, or bring in a copy of their child’s updated TN Immunization certificate to ensure a smooth transition to the start of the school year.

Who can I contact at the site if I have questions?

Each Promising Scholars site will have a lead administrator, counselor or social worker. The welcome letter provided by your assigned site will have the lead administrator's contact information.

What if my child needs to be absent?

Regular attendance is essential for students to benefit fully from Promising Scholars. Research and program data show that students need consistent participation to experience meaningful academic growth. If your child needs to be absent, please notify your student’s teacher or the site administrator as soon as possible. Staying in close communication helps schools support students and plan instruction effectively. While we understand that absences may occur, we strongly encourage families to prioritize daily attendance so students can receive the full benefit of the program.

My child is a current 3rd grade student. Are they required to attend Promising Scholars?

Under Tennessee state law (T.C.A. § 49-6-3115), third grade students must demonstrate proficiency in English Language Arts (ELA) on the TCAP assessment to be promoted to fourth grade. Students who do not score proficient may be required to attend a summer learning program, such as Promising Scholars, and/or participate in tutoring during their fourth grade year, depending on their final TCAP score.

If your child is currently not on track to score proficient, based on benchmark assessments or universal screeners, we strongly encourage you to plan for them to attend Promising Scholars. This program offers academic support aligned with state requirements and provides an opportunity to meet promotion criteria.

If you have questions about your child’s progress or whether they may be required to attend Promising Scholars, please reach out to their teacher or school administrator.

Will my child receive grades?

Although academic work will not be graded, elementary and middle school students in Promising Scholars will have an opportunity to get caught up academically before the 2026-27 school year begins. All students will work on subjects and areas specific to their individual needs.

What items will my child need to bring with them daily?

Students should bring their laptop and charger to school each day.

Is my child required to wear standard school attire?

No. Students are not required to wear standard school attire. However, the district clothing policy will still apply.

What is the code of conduct?

The MNPS Student Handbook, along with the discipline codes and procedures, will continue to be adhered to during the summer learning program.

Can my child bring treats or birthday goodies? Can I drop off treats or birthday goodies?

No outside food, other than the child’s personal lunch, can be brought to the summer learning program.

How will a typical day look for my student?

Students will work on math, English, physical activity and STREAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics). The schedule for 9th to 12th grade will vary by grade level and location.

Rising K-5th Grade

Math - 8 to 10:15 a.m.
English - 10:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. (includes lunch)
Physical Activity - 1 to 2 p.m.
STREAM - 2 to 3 p.m.

Rising 6-8 Grade

Math - 9 a.m. to 11:05 a.m.
English - 11:05 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. (includes lunch)
Physical Activity - 1:45 to 2:45 p.m.
STREAM - 2:45 to 4 p.m.

Rising Grade 9

Math - 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
English - 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
STREAM - 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
Lunch - 10:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
Physical activity - 11:15 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Rising 9-12 Grade

College & Career Readiness - 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Find Your Bus Stop

Exceptional Education

Summer Programs FAQ: Exceptional Education Students

ESY (Extended School Year) services will be co-located at select Promising Scholars sites and transportation will be provided for students.

What is the difference between Promising Scholars Program and Extended School Year?

The MNPS Promising Scholars Program is a no cost summer learning experience for all eligible students entering grades K-12 that will be offered at over 40 school sites. Each camp will offer a mix of classroom learning, science, technology and art activities; physical activity, and other fun experiences. Extended School Year is for students who have an IEP. Extended School Year services are provided to students for whom extended schools breaks are determined to be detrimental to a student’s progress. ESY is to maintain skills so student will not be spending additional weeks during the school year to return to their former level and all decisions regarding ESY are made by the IEP Team.

If a student attends Promising Scholars Program and IEP team determines they are eligible for ESY can they attend both?

Yes, we will offer select sites for students who are attending both ESY and Promising Scholars so they can access both programs.

Are we required to implement IEPs for students in the summer learning programs?

No, IEPs are only required to be implemented during the school year. However, any opportunities provided outside of the school year must be accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. The IEP team should review the student’s needs to determine any accommodations, modifications, and/or related services needed to ensure access to the instructional activities. This may include related services that a student normally receives through their IEP during the school year. An example of related services would be assistive technology, brailed curriculum, communication devices, etc.

What will Promising Scholars provide for our students on a modified curriculum?

Promising Scholars camp will offer a mix of classroom learning; science, technology, and art activities; physical activity, and other fun experiences, with a full day schedule for rising K-8th grades and a half day for rising 9th - 12th graders. The student's IEP team should review the student’s needs to determine any accommodations, modifications, and/or related services needed to ensure access to the instructional activities. This may include related services that a student normally receives through their IEP during the
school year.

If a student has a full time 1:1 paraprofessional support during the school year will they receive that same level of support for Promising Scholars?

Services outlined in a student's IEP are only required to be implemented during the school year. Students with IEPs will have equitable access to Promising Scholars and the supports they need to have equitable access.

Will special education teachers and paraprofessionals be hired to support students for Promising Scholars Program?

Yes, special education staff will be part of the Young Scholars Program to ensure students with IEPs have equitable access.

If a student attends one of the MNPS Special Day Schools or a Contracted Special Day School are they eligible to apply for the Promising Scholars Program?

Yes, Promising Scholars program is a camp available for all students.

Will related services be provided to students in the summer learning program, such as occupational therapy?

IEPs are only required to be implemented during the school year. However, any opportunities provided outside of the school year must be accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. The IEP team should review the student’s needs to determine any accommodations, modifications, and/or related services needed to ensure access to the instructional activities. This may include related services that a student normally receives through their IEP during the school year. An example of related services would be assistive
technology, brailed curriculum, communication devices, etc. Related Service providers will be available to consult with teachers to ensure access during the Promising Scholars Program.

Will Special education transportation be made available for students who receive special transportation throughout the school year be accessible for students to access Promising Scholars?

Yes; if a student who receives special transportation needs special transportation to access Promising Scholars it will be provided.

Download the Frequently Asked Questions for students in Exceptional Education

English Learners

What is the role of a Parent Outreach Translator during the Promising Scholars Program?

Parent Outreach Translators will:

Directly assist Non English Language Background (NELB) parents in assigned summer schools in person, via phone, and via email.
Assist school personal with translation and interpretation of meetings, parent contacts, and other needs for families during the summer program.
Translate needed documents for summer programming at the school site.
Assist in increasing parent participation of school events and activities by personally notifying families and inviting families by letter, phone, and/or e-mail.

What is the role of an EL Teacher during the Promising Scholars Program?

In this position, the EL teacher will provide supplemental language instruction to English Learners throughout the summer school day. Scheduling and EL teacher's support are dependent upon the needs of EL students and their proficiency levels. EL teachers will spend 100% of their time instructing EL students

If a student takes special transportation for programming to an out-of zone school (ex. SIFE Program), where will they go to Promising Scholars? Will they also get special transportation to their program site?

Students will attend the Promising Scholars site that is closest to their closest summer school site. This may or may not be their zone school.

School Contact Information

Questions? Email the Promising Scholars team.

Before and Afterschool Programs

Summer Learning for High School Students

Information and Guidance for Summer Learning

Information and Guidance for Summer Learning

Students should discuss specific needs with their high school counselors prior to registration. Options for high school students:

Promising Scholars
- A program for high school students seeking exciting and engaging enrichment experiences centered around college and career readiness.
English Learners Summer Program
- First-time credits offered at identified zoned high schools. Students must be active English Learners, two years or less of EL services, and need the credits to stay on track or get caught up for graduation. (In-person only.)
Extended School Year (ESY)
- For students receiving Exceptional Education services who have an Individualized Education Program that includes extended school year services. (In-person only.)
Dual Enrollment
- Students in grade 11 (rising to grade 12) can earn high school and college credits in the summer with Nashville State Community College. Must have a 2.8 GPA and meet eligibility requirements.
  - Learn more about Dual Enrollment requirements and complete grant paperwork.
  - Apply to participate in Dual Enrollment starting in February 2026 via the MNPS application to ensure you will receive high school credit and college credit.

Summer Learning at Home - Resources for all Students

Elementary Literacy

Elementary Literacy Resources

PBS Learning

PBS Learning offers students (and parents) extra practice and resources to support learning. Through additional texts and videos, students can work on the different strands of literacy (or any other subject area) within interesting topics aligned to appropriate grade bands.

Ready Rosie

ReadyRosie is an early education tool offers free videos of simple engaging activities you can do at home with your child, ages birth to 3rd grade.

Storyline

Storyline Online streams videos featuring actors reading children’s books alongside illustrations. Storyline Online is available 24 hours a day and each book includes supplemental curriculum aiming to strengthen comprehension and verbal and written skills for English-language learners.

Dyslexia: IDA Basics

The International Dyslexia Association provides informational materials, professional learning and resources to support individuals and the parents of individuals with dyslexia.

Kid’s Health Dyslexia Fact Sheet

Dyslexia is a learning disability that makes it hard to learn to read and understand written language. Even students with average or above-average intelligence can have dyslexia. To learn more about what families and parents can do to support their children, read the Kid’s Health Dyslexia Fact Sheet.

Understood.org

Understood.org offers resources for student who learn and think "differently."

Lexia Core5 Reading

A variety of Lexia Core5 reading activities and lessons your student can do at home.

Epic Books

Epic, a subscription digital reading platform for kids 12 and under, offers texts about all different topics and well-known authors. Students also can create collections from more than 40,000 books.

Middle & High School Literacy

Middle and High School Literacy Resources

PBS Learning

Nashville Public Library

Students can participate in the Summer Reading Challenge by tracking their minutes of reading and earn prizes.

eBooks - MackinVIA

Students can use their Limitless Libraries login to checkout ebooks and digital audiobooks from MackinVIA and either read/ listen to those on their school laptop or check them out so that they can read/listen to them on a personal device.

The ProjectLIT Community

Read current adolescent literature books alongside your student and join in ProjectLIT events and conversations. You also can encourage a book club at your student’s school.

Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media advises caretakers about content in specific texts and tips for having difficult conversations on important topics.

Math

Math Resources

How to Learn Math online course

How to Learn Math is a free class for learners of all levels of mathematics. There are 6 sessions, the first three are approximately 10 minutes long and the last three approximately 20 mins long. It combines really important information on the brain and learning with new evidence on the best ways to approach and learn math effectively. Many people have had negative experiences with math and end up disliking math or failing. This class will give learners of math the information they need to become powerful math learners, it will correct any misconceptions they have about what math is, and it will teach them about their own potential to succeed and the strategies needed to approach math effectively. If you have had past negative experiences with math this will help change your relationship to one that is positive and powerful.

Productive Struggle Strategies for Getting “Unstuck”

Though struggle is natural when learning new content, it is important for students to have strategies to use to overcome the challenges they face. The following strategies can support learners to use their prior knowledge to find different strategies to solve the problems they face.

think of a similar problem you understand
draw a math picture or use objects to represent the situation
say the problem in your own words
change the numbers to help you determine a strategy to use
visualize the problem to better understand what is happening and what is being asked
try a different strategy for sense-making or finding the solution

Questions to Support Mathematical Thinking

We all want our students to be able to correctly answer the questions asked of them in math class, but the process to arrive at an answer and an explanation of how and why a strategy works is just as important as the solution itself. When reviewing your student’s work, ask them to explain any pictures they drew, how they made sense of the problem, and how they might explain the main ideas to a friend. Allowing them to practice talking about their ideas will support their development of deeper mathematical understanding and show them there is a purpose to mathematical problem solving.

Questions:

How do you know that?
What makes you say that?
Can you think of any exceptions?
Can you think of another way to represent that? What are some connections between the two representations?

Better Understanding Math

Khan Academy Tutorials

Khan Academy provides free instruction and their website includes lessons that allow students to practice at their own pace, first filling in gaps in their understanding and then accelerating their learning.

Visit Khan Academy to create a free parent account.
Once an account is created, click COURSES and select the appropriate grade-level or course
- Note: For high school Integrated Math courses, select “See All Math” and scroll down to select Mathematics 1, Mathematics 2, or Mathematics 3.

Mathematics Milestone Videos

Graham Fletcher’s Mathematical Progression Videos (grade K – 5)

These short videos are designed to give a high-level overview of the progression of student learning for foundational math concepts, such as addition and subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions. These videos may help you better understand the content your elementary student is learning – particularly if the content looks different that how you learned math when you were in school.

The Multiplication Course by Steve Wyborney (grades 3 – 12)

If your student is struggling with basic computation and number sense, this series of videos can support him or her to better understand mathematical relationships and become more familiar with the concept of multiplication.

i-Ready Math Family Center

Visit the i-Ready online program for reading and mathematics online work.