Horizons Colorado at CA (HCCA) proudly celebrated its 26th summer this year. Horizons exists to advance educational equity by building long-term partnerships with families, communities, and schools. By creating enriching experiences beyond the classroom, Horizons ignites a passion for learning. This summer, HCCA welcomed over 220 K-8 students to the CA campus for six weeks of academic and enrichment activities. Along with literacy and math instruction, participants enjoyed Horizons’ signature swimming lessons, engaging art projects, exciting science experiments, and special field trips. Thanks to intentional programming and dedicated teachers, students achieved an impressive average growth of 4.5 months in reading and math within just six weeks!
This dynamic program provides the opportunity for mutually enriching relationships to develop between the Horizons and Colorado Academy students. By collaborating with HCCA, CA students gain valuable leadership skills, foster empathy, and deepen their understanding of diverse communities. This partnership not only enhances the educational experience for everyone involved but also strengthens the bonds between the two communities, creating a vibrant learning environment for all.
We recently caught up with Caroline Haley, Co-President of the Horizons Club at CA, to chat with her about her experience and involvement with Horizons.
When did you first become involved with Horizons Colorado at CA (HCCA)?
I have been involved since the Ninth Grade, and I just completed my second summer working in the summer program. I have also been tutoring Horizons students for three years in the after-school program.
What was your motivation for joining Horizons?
I heard about Horizons through friends. I really like working with kids, and when I joined, I immediately made really great connections with the students, and I just kept wanting to come back.
Can you tell us about your role with Horizons this past summer?
I worked in the Reading Specialist classroom. I loved seeing the growth in students’ reading. It keeps fueling them and keeps them going over the summer. It is really motivating for them, too. At first, lots of kids are reluctant to come to this class. But, we found activities that helped them to enjoy reading. We played games like tic-tac-toe to get them going. Some of the students really struggle, but we built up their confidence to do the things that they said they couldn’t do at the beginning. By meeting them halfway and staying positive, they know it’s okay that they might not know the answer right now, but they will learn.
Do you have a story of impact that you would like to share?
One student at the beginning of the summer really did not want to come to the Reading Specialist class. He kept saying he did not want to read. During the last week of the summer, this student came up to me and told me he had read a book that weekend with his family, and he was so proud of himself. I was so happy with his motivation, and I was just so happy to see how happy he was.
What is your favorite memory from this summer?
Hmm… favorite thing—I can’t say just one thing! I have so many memories! I remember one moment during the Horizons Hustle (similar to a field day). I was running one of the stations where we were playing a game with pool noodles and beach balls. A group of kindergartners ran towards me and they were so happy to see me. I love seeing the kids at their best and happy and having fun. They love being there.
Can you share a bit about your experience tutoring students after school?
I tutor twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I am working with a fourth grade student this year. I taught her reading over the summer, too. Outside of helping her learn, we have formed a deep bond, and she trusts me. I can tell if she is having a bad day.
Has your work with Horizons impacted your future plans or career path?
Definitely. I love working with kids. I love making them happy and helping them—especially kids who might not have access. I started training as a dance teacher when I was in Eighth Grade. Once I got involved with Horizons, especially during the summer program, it really helped to solidify that I want to work with kids in the future.
Is there anything else you think is important for people to know about Horizons?
The community aspect of Horizons is really important. Yes, you are helping them with math, reading, etc., but you are also helping them to learn how to be part of a community and how to be kind to others. Seeing the students make good friends in their Horizons class and watching them reconnect over the summer—they go to many different schools—is also really cool.
Any advice you would give to someone thinking about working with Horizons?
Give it a try! You don’t have to commit to a whole trimester. You can come to a check-in or a Super Saturday. Once you meet the kids, you’ll want to stay!