Summer Discovery
Students and families participating in Summer Discovery will explore their interests, engage in their communities, and discover their potential through robust enrichment and academic programming. This free program provides fun learning experiences to support the whole child in their educational journey and life beyond the classroom.
Serving students in Macomb, Wayne, and Oakland Counties
Enrollment varies by site. Families should be sure to check out each site’s enrollment policy. Contact information is provided to reach out to the sites directly with further questions on enrollment.
If you live in or attend school in Macomb, Oakland, or Wayne counties, please see which location is best for you.
Want to read more about the program? Visit our FAQ page.
Learn more about what students will experience over the summer at each unique program.
Future Applicants
If you are a school or community-based organization interested in hosting a Summer Discovery program NEXT SUMMER (Summer 2025), we have information for you to start preparing now.
FAQ
Questions about the Summer Discovery Program?
Check out our Family FAQs
Ballmer Group is making an investment in summer enrichment for students in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties. We know from parents and community leaders that not enough summer enrichment programs for students in Southeast Michigan exist, and we know that barriers such as transportation and cost prevent parents from enrolling their children even if spots are available.
Beginning in January 2024, traditional and charter schools will have the opportunity to apply for funding to provide instruction and enrichment activities in summer 2024. In its first year, the programs will be for students completing grades K-8 in spring 2024 (Rising 1st – Rising 9th graders).
Michigan parents report that afterschool and summer programs help them keep their jobs, build connections to their children’s education, and keep their children safe and engaged in learning. However, parents also report that there are not enough programs to serve students; in fact, in Michigan, unmet demand for out-of-school-time (OST) is at an all time high. For every child in an afterschool program in Michigan, four more are waiting to get in.
Summer Discovery is a regional effort designed for students and families in Southeast Michigan, where many students need more access to learning and activity opportunities during the summer break. We believe in equitable access to safe, quality out-of- school-time (OST) programs that grow academic outcomes, offer enrichment activities that increase exposure and interest in careers, engage families, and deepen community support for afterschool and summer programs. We believe that ALL kids in Michigan deserve opportunities to succeed in school and to dream big about their futures.
Summer Discovery sites have flexibility to design programs that meet the needs and cater to the interests of their students, teachers, and families and are using grant funding to fund new programming or to enhance existing programming. All programs will:
- Provide at least 20 days of summer instruction
- Provide 3+ hours of English language arts (ELA) and math instruction
- Provide care for students for 8+ hours/day (may include before- and/or after- care)
- Including enrichment opportunities for students that provide an opportunity for active, engaged participation by students in a safe and supported climate
As soon as possible! Spots will begin filling up quickly, so please reach out to sites and sign up as soon as you can.