Clinton City Schools is gearing up for an expanded summer camp program aimed at enhancing reading skills among students. During the recent Board of Education meeting on May 1, 2025, officials announced plans for the RTA summer camp, which will run for three weeks and include 72 hours of structured reading activities. A highlight of the program will be a field trip to the North Carolina Aquarium, made possible through funding from Simple Gifts and Level Learning.

Co-directors Nicole Boykin and Daniel Strickland are optimistic about the camp's growth, reporting that participation has nearly doubled compared to last year. This year, the program aims to serve 100 students, with priority given to third graders, while also accommodating some second graders. The camp will feature 13 certified teachers and a mix of high school and college students, known as Dark Horse Fellows, who will gain hands-on teaching experience.

The camp's schedule is designed to be highly structured, running from 8 AM to 3 PM, and will include a full day of reading activities. Parents have already begun receiving preliminary letters about the program, and follow-up communications will ensure that families are engaged and informed.

The board emphasized the importance of reaching out to students with the greatest need, ensuring that those who require additional support are prioritized for enrollment. The camp's success will be closely monitored, with testing data used to finalize participant selection.

As the summer approaches, Clinton City Schools is committed to fostering a love for reading and providing essential educational support to its students, setting the stage for a successful academic year ahead.