from the desk of Janet Napolitano

Thursday, May 31, 2007 Dear Friends,
from the desk of Janet Napolitano

Many students and teachers across the state are looking forward to the end of another school year and the beginning of fun, travel and relaxation. For parents, summer break presents the challenge of finding ways to keep kids busy and safe.



Research suggests there is a learning dip that takes place over the summer months when youth are away from the structure of a classroom. Teachers spend about four weeks of each new school year re-teaching lessons from the previous school year as a result of summer learning loss.



That is why it is so important to keep young learners engaged in safe and stimulating activities throughout the summer break. Children and youth in quality out-of-school and after-school programs are more likely to do better in school, have greater expectations for their future and are less likely to smoke, drink alcohol and use drugs.



There are a variety of high quality summer programs available to Arizona families. Your child’s own school is a good place to start your search. Also consider programs operated through your local library, parks and recreation departments, the YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, community colleges and universities. You can also visit www.azafterschool.org/ChoosingQualityCareGuidelines.pdf for tips on choosing a quality out-of-school program.


Another area organization, Raising Arizona Kids, provides a list of summer camps that encourage summer learning in various categories including theater, nature, arts and sports. Their Web site, www.raisingarizonakids.com, also provides a comprehensive calendar of family events.


For older youth, summer is also an opportunity for work or community service. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, youth who are engaged in community service perform better in school, have a better sense of themselves and feel more empowered to make a difference in their own lives.


I encourage adults to look into the various activities Arizona youth can participate in that provide not only a fun and safe environment, but also a place they can test their knowledge and drive.

As always, if you have any questions or comments, please contact my office at
800-253-0883 and ask to speak to Constituent Services.




Yours very truly,

Janet Napolitano
Governormore az arizona politics