Summer Literacy Initiative

The Summer Literacy Initiative (SLI) is a statewide collaborative effort working with rural faith communities in North Carolina to combat learning loss in their communities through evidence-informed summer literacy programs for rising first through third graders.

The Impact Center at the UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (IC–FPG) provides implementation and programmatic support to SLI sites as they implement and deliver the Summer Literacy Program. Our implementation support aims to equip site leaders and implementation teams with effective practices, enhance their ability to develop or secure the resources needed to support high-quality programming, and partner closely with them to achieve intended outcomes. Our programmatic support focuses on preparing program staff to deliver SLP’s instructional and enrichment components with fidelity, skill, and confidence, in ways that are responsive to the cultural identities and needs of students and families.

All supports are multifaceted, occurring through a combination of universal learning, communications, and networking activities; group-based learning and application; and tailored skills training, facilitation, and coaching for individuals, teams, organizations, and system partners. Design thinking and consultation support are also provided to governance and other support partners to enhance system alignment, effectiveness, and sustainment.