Most out-of-school time leaders and advocates are familiar with the phenomenon social scientists call "the summer slide," a time when children—especially those in underserved communities—are at risk of losing up to two or three months of grade-level equivalency in math, reading and other academic skills.

A message from Rachel Gwaltney, Director of Policy & Partnerships, National Summer Learning Association:

Think of opportunity as a faucet. During the school year, the faucet flows for our country's young people, offering access to public education, structured afterschool activities for many students, caring mentors or adults, and daily subsidized breakfast and lunch for those in need—all resources critical to ensuring positive outcomes for youth.