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       The Wallace Foundation asked RAND to assess the nature of summer learning loss, the evidence base behind summer learning programs, and challenges districts faced in providing summer learning programs.

       To provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue, our education experts conducted extensive literature reviews, examined summer program cost data, interviewed numerous providers of summer programs, and visited a diverse range of U.S. cities to interview summer learning leaders and observe summer learning directly.

       Research Questions What is the nature of summer learning loss? Are summer learning programs effective in improving student achievement? How much do summer learning programs cost? What are the obstacles to implementing summer programs? What can help implementation?

       Summer learning loss contributes substantially to the achievement gap. Students who attend summer programs have better outcomes than their peers. But not all programs studied were found to be effective. Strategies for maximizing quality, enrollment, and attendance are critical to ensuring program effectiveness. Cost is the main barrier to implementing summer programs. Many districts have cut programs in response to budget cuts. Districts and providers should invest in qualified staff and early planning embed promising practices into programs think creatively about funding sources strengthen programs through partnerships. Policymakers and funders should support consistent funding sources for summer programs provide clear guidance on the use of scarce funds extend the research base on summer learning.

       Making Summer Count remains the most comprehensive study on summer learning to date and continues to influence the policy conversation in the popular press, academic journals, and among decisionmakers. It formed the basis for The Wallace Foundation's summer learning demonstration project, which includes a rigorous randomized controlled trial of voluntary summer learning programs in five urban districts. RAND is conducting the evaluation of this demonstration project. In August 2013, RAND experts followed this effort with Getting to Work on Summer Learning, a guidebook to help school districts launch and sustain effective summer learning programs, including recommendations on funding.

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