Summer Learning Labs Return to Serve Nearly 12,000 Hoosier Students
Students across Indiana are headed to Summer Learning Labs (SLL) sites for 2026 programming. For a third year, the five-week program will provide free, high-quality summer learning to Hoosier students statewide. SLL was modeled after Indy Summer Learning Labs (ISLL), which launched in Indianapolis in 2021. Operated by The Mind Trust in partnership with the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE), local schools, districts, and community organizations, this year’s statewide program features 117 free sites that have enrolled nearly 12,000 students.
“Each summer, we see the impact of high-quality learning environments where students can grow, explore, and build a strong academic foundation for the next school year. Summer Learning Labs are delivering real academic results, and we’re proud to continue working with the Indiana Department of Education to provide access to this opportunity for students across Indiana,” said Alli Vanneman, Director of Strategic Partnerships of The Mind Trust.
Summer Learning Labs’ Impact
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 it most. After replicating statewide in 2024, SLL students across the state receive daily math and reading instruction from licensed teachers who use a curriculum created by Lavinia Group, designed to accelerate reading over the summer break.
2026 SLL Program Highlights:
- All Sites Free to Attend: For the first time, all SLL sites statewide are free during the five-week program period. Some ISLL sites may charge for additional weeks, but the main program dates are available at no cost to help ensure that students who need summer programming the most can access it.
- Sites State-wide: This year’s program spans 117 locations, including community centers, churches, and schools across 36 Indiana cities.
- Dedicated Educators: More than 700 licensed teachers and instructional assistants have been hired to deliver high-quality, in-person instruction in math and reading.
- Strong Enrollment: Nearly 12,000 students have enrolled this year and will receive high-quality summer education and enrichment.
- Comprehensive Services: All sites provide free meals, and many offer transportation options and before and after-school care.
- Engaging Activities: In addition to academic instruction, students will participate in a variety of enrichment activities, including field trips, arts and crafts, STEM projects, and more.
- Quality Anchor Partners: Each anchor partner has years of experience supporting their community and is a pillar of it in their own right. All 2026 SLL anchor partners will be in their third year of the program, while ISLL is entering its sixth year.
2026 Summer Learning Labs key program details include:
The 2026 SLL network includes four anchor partners serving students across Indiana:
BGC SLL, operated by the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Northern Indiana Corridor (BGCNIC), will work with 14 affiliate clubs across the state. They are serving nearly 6,000 students statewide at 50 sites in 29 cities. The BGC SLL program dates vary by location. In addition to daily math and reading instruction, enrichment activities may include arts and crafts, athletics, STEM, and more. The program has hired nearly 350 teachers for the program.
“We are thrilled to welcome students back for another summer of learning and growth through Summer Learning Labs. At Boys and Girls Clubs, we believe every young person deserves a safe, supportive environment where they can thrive, and this partnership allows us to extend that mission into the classroom. We’re excited to see the impact this summer will bring for our students and communities across Indiana,” said Duane Wilson, Chief Executive Officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northern Indiana Corridor.
ISLL, operated by The Mind Trust, serves more than 5,300 students in Indianapolis across 60 sites in 2 cities. The Indy SLL program is running from June 15 to July 17. In addition to daily math and reading instruction, enrichment activities include field trips to places such as The Indianapolis Zoo, The Children’s Museum, roller skating rinks, and much more. The program has hired nearly 350 teachers.
“What started in Indianapolis has grown into something truly statewide, and we are so proud to be a part of it. As we kick off Day 1 here in Indy, I take so much joy in knowing that students across Indiana are receiving the same level of high-quality instruction and enrichment this summer, which is exactly what this work is all about,” said Jazmin Sanders, Senior Director of Innovative Learning.
Southeast SLL, operated by Creating Avenues for Student Transformation (CAST), serves nearly 200 students across 6 sites across 4 cities. The Southeast SLL program runs from May 26 to June 26. In addition to daily math and reading instruction, enrichment activities include field trips, arts, athletics, STEM, and more. The program has hired 25 teachers.
“Summer Learning Labs has become an invaluable part of what we offer students and families in our communities. For students in Campbellsburg, Hanover, Salem, and New Pekin, this program means access to high-quality instruction that might not otherwise be available in our region. We’re proud to be part of a statewide effort that puts students first and delivers real results,” said Emily Gibson, Programming Coordinator, Creating Avenues for Student Transformation (CAST).
Wabash SLL, operated by the Wabash County YMCA, serves approximately 40 students in North Manchester at 1 site. The Wabash SLL program runs from June 8 to July 17. In addition to daily math and reading instruction, enrichment activities include Sky Zone, bowling, skating, a magic show, a visit to the Fort Wayne Zoo, swimming at the YMCA, and more. The program has hired 3 teachers.
“We are excited to welcome students back for another year of summer learning. Our goal is to provide engaging, hands-on learning opportunities that extend the school year while ensuring students have fun along the way. In addition to our daytime activities, we have planned a variety of enriching afternoon experiences designed to enhance learning, encourage exploration, and create lasting memories for our students,” said Amelia Hedges, Director of Youth Development, Wabash County YMCA.
For more information about Summer Learning Labs, visit thesummerlearninglabs.com.
