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The Horizons Network in 2023

A Snapshot “It’s important that all children have access to academic and social programs during the summer no matter their socioeconomic background. I truly believe that Horizons has made a difference in closing some of the learning gaps that exist in many families like my own who don’t have the ability to fund such activities throughout the summer.” -family, Horizons at Dedham Country Day School

LEARNING & DISC VERY This summer, at 71 Horizons sites in 20 states, over 7,100 students were engaged in strengthening their literacy and math skills, building relationships, gaining social-emotional tools, learning to swim, and having FUN.

Horizons at the Episcopal Academy students researched and presented their own project-based summer investigations, like tackling climate change.

Horizons Greater Washington students braved a local challenge course including zip lining, tree climbing, and a competitive tug-of-war.

Young scientists from Horizons at the Ethel Walker School and Horizons at Westminster School came together for their annual STEAM exposition. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math)

"I love swimming! I learned to swim at Horizons. I can jump in the pool now. It's so refreshing!" -student, Horizons at Francis Parker School

Thousands of Horizons students conquered their fears and learned a lifesaving, confidence-building skill while they had fun with friends and teachers.

Students at Horizons at Norwalk Community College practiced yoga, mindfulness, and meditation as part of their "Zen Ten" summer curriculum.

Through a local partnership, students at Horizons of Kent & Queen Anne's set sail and learned about tying proper knots, measuring distance, and more.

"My favorite thing about Horizons is that when I wake up I know I'm about to have a good day." -student, Horizons at the Harley School

Me vs. Myself Who are you? A different person everyday I pack my bags cause i ain't here to stay From personality to looks A person born from sharp green thorns A rose that always grew from concrete Ain't that neat? I am a song with misworded lyrics Once you understand me You will feel it.

by Akeelah, student at Horizons Hampton Roads

THOUGHTS FROM OUR ALUMNI

Da’Von Boyd, alumni of Horizons Hampton Roads

OUR NETWORK DID YOU KN W? A student who does not read proficiently by 3rd grade is four times more likely to drop out of high school. -The Annie E.

Casey Foundation

100% of Horizons students are proficient readers by 3rd grade!

7,148

students

1,057

teachers

6-10

week gains in reading and math

program sites

“I truly loved the experience that my daughter had with Horizons this summer. Every day she came home teaching me games and chants that they did. She would talk about swimming and learning to keep her eyes open in the water. I loved that she had these new experiences and was in such a nurturing environment. I also loved that while there was a focus on fun, there was also a focus on enrichment as well.” -family, Horizons at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy

THANKS TO YOU The Horizons Network relies on the generosity of donors. Our long-term sustainability depends on partnerships with individuals and foundations like you, and we are grateful for each and every supporter who joins the fight for equity in education.

OUR FUTURE Over the next 3 years, Horizons National’s Strategic Plan has us focused on delivering:

1. Accelerated Network Expansion

We will reach more students by exploring strategic partnerships and new program models, with a goal of reaching 100 sites.

2. A High-Impact Customer Service System for the Network We will develop a stronger and more efficient customer service model, aligned with our Network’s highest priority needs.

3. A Culture of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion We will embed equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) into every aspect of our work, and create vehicles for our stakeholders to be seen and heard.

4. Increased and Diversified Revenue

We will continue to look for new sources of funding and work closely with our affiliates as we explore a cost-sharing model for some centralized services.

The Horizons National team and Board of Directors are excited to embark on our next chapter with this strategic direction, and with the support and collaboration of our affiliates, host schools and institutions, community and government partners, and Horizons students, families, and alumni to advance educational equity everywhere we can.

MISSION

We advance educational equity by building longterm partnerships with students, families, communities and schools to create experiences outside of school that inspire the joy of learning.

VISION Our vision is a future in which every child thrives.