Record enrollment to kick-off fifth year of Indy Summer learning Labs

Students achieved double-digit learning gains since inception

(June 16, 2025) – Today marks the start of year five of Indy Summer Learning Labs (ISLL), a transformative five-week program designed to boost learning and enrichment for Hoosier students. Operated by The Mind Trust in partnership with local schools, districts, and community organizations, this year’s program features over 50 sites that have enrolled more than 5,300 students. 

“We are beyond excited to launch Indy Summer Learning Labs for its fifth year. Each year, we witness just how essential high-quality summer academic programming is for accelerating student learning. As we begin the first week of programming, we are eager to keep the momentum going by helping students strengthen their ELA and math skills, close academic gaps, and build confidence heading into the upcoming school year. This is our biggest year yet, and we can’t wait to see our students thrive,” said Jazmin Sanders, Director of School Support and Out-of-School Programs. 

Indy Summer Learning Labs drive academic learning gains

ISLL was launched in 2021 to address learning loss caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and provide high-quality summer learning to students who need access the most. All ISLL students receive daily math and reading instruction from licensed teachers who use a curriculum created by Lavinia Group designed to accelerate reading over summer break. 

Since its inception, pre- and post-tests for the labs have shown double-digit gains, with notable 2024 results including a 26 percentage point increase in overall English Language Arts (ELA) scores and a 24 percentage point increase in math scores. 

2025 ISLL Program Highlights:

• 50+ Sites: This year’s program spans 55 locations, including community centers, churches, and schools throughout Marion County. Click here to view the map of sites for 2025.
• Strong Enrollment: With 5,300 students enrolled before the launch date, this program is projected to serve more students than ever before. 
• Dedicated Educators: Over 300 licensed teachers and instructional assistants have been hired to deliver high-quality, in-person instruction in math and reading.
• Comprehensive Services: All sites provide breakfast and lunch, and many offer before—and after-school care and transportation options.
• Engaging Activities: In addition to academic instruction, students will participate in a variety of enrichment activities, including field trips, arts, STEM projects, and more.

“The Mind Trust is proud to support programs that create real change in students’ lives. As we begin the fifth year of Indy Summer Learning Labs, we continue to focus on providing students with transformational learning experiences and growth opportunities that will benefit them even after the summer ends,” said Brandon Brown, CEO of The Mind Trust.

Impact of the Labs

Strong data collection is conducted to understand the demographics of students being served and capture program effectiveness. All students in ISLL take a pre- and post-test to measure learning gains in math and reading. 

Every year since 2021, students who participated saw double-digit learning gains in math and reading as measured by an assessment taken at the start and end of the program. Notable program results from 2024 include:

• A 26 percentage point increase in basic and proficient scores for English/language arts (ELA).
• A 24 percentage point increase in basic and proficient scores for math.
• 87% of ISLL administrators felt the program was extremely or very effective at improving student math and reading proficiency.

To learn more about the program, visit indysummerlearninglabs.com.