Bank supports summer learning program for Boyertown schools
BOYERTOWN >> Eighty Boyertown School District students spent six weeks enriching their education through a summer learning program, thanks to an area bank.
Earlier this year, Ambler Savings Bank, with headquarters in Ambler, Montgomery County, presented a check for $10,000 to the Foundation for Boyertown Education.
The funds targeted Boyertown’s Teachers in the Parks, or TIPS, program, with locations in two neighborhood parks.
The program returned for its second year at Bally Community Park and was extended to Boyertown Community Park.
TIPS meets kids where they like to play and combats summer learning loss with fun, interactive programs taught by experienced teachers.
Kids from Boyertown, Colebrookedale, Earl, Pine Forge, and Washington elementary schools spent six weeks in the parks, reinforcing skills learned during the school year.
“This program allows students to start school on a level playing field with their peers,” said Tessi Melchior, executive director of the foundation.
Studies have shown that during summer break, students can lose 20% of what they were taught the previous year, Melchior said, noting the TIPS program helps students return to school with the knowledge they need for learning success. “We are so grateful to Ambler Savings Bank for investing in the future of (our) students,” she said.
Roger Zacharia, president and CEO of Ambler Savings Bank, said the bank is proud to have partnered with the school district to support the program.
“This unique summer program is a priceless asset to students in our community,” he said.
The bank’s donation covered the entire cost of the program for 2019.