RELEASED June 24, 2009

FRESNO CELEBRATES NATIONAL SUMMER LEARNING DAY AT THE GRIZZLIES GAME, WED., JULY 8

FRESNO, Calif. – Thousands of students and parents will join the Fresno County Office of Education and Central Unified School District in celebrating National Summer Learning Day at the Fresno Grizzlies game on Wed., July 8 at 6:05 p.m.

During the week of July 6, more than 350 programs throughout the country will hold events to raise awareness about the importance of summer learning.

Studies show that students experience setbacks in academic skills during the summer months.  If students are not engaged in continuous learning activities throughout the summer, they fall behind academically.

“Student programs beyond school hours allow youth to expand themselves in areas of creative expression, physical health, mental awareness, and personal development.  What’s more, they give parents the comfort of knowing their children are excelling in a safe and supportive environment,” said Randy Mehrten, senior director of Safe and Healthy Kids with the Fresno County Office of Education.

Informational exhibits and innovative demonstrations will emphasize the importance of out-of-school learning—in summer school and after school—and the positive impact it has in a child’s growth and development.

Students in Central Unified School District’s summer learning programs will kick-off the evening with a pre-game parade.  The evening will include student talent showcases from musical and dance performances, to art and project exhibits, and other various enrichment activities students are engaged in throughout the summer.

Tickets are available at the Fresno Grizzlies box office, and online at www.fresnogrizzlies.com.

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