Summer Learning at Sierra Schools of Arizona

Across Sierra Schools of Arizona, students in the Extended School Year (ESY) program spent time strengthening their skills through hands-on learning. Themed challenges, academic activities, sensory exploration, and fun celebrations helped students build confidence and gain independence. They also helped students connect with peers and staff.

Hands-On Summer Learning Across Sierra Schools of Arizona

At Sierra School of Scottsdale, students scooped up success through project-based learning that blended academics with social-emotional skill development. They worked together to earn scoops toward an end-of-summer ice cream celebration, turning daily progress into a shared schoolwide achievement.

Building Academic and Communication Skills

Sierra School of Peoria students built academic skills through engaging, individualized learning activities. Staff supported them as they practiced problem-solving, communication, and fine motor skills in an encouraging environment. These hands-on opportunities helped students demonstrate understanding and celebrate success throughout the learning process.

In addition, students explored sensory diets and learned how different sensory experiences help them stay regulated, focused, and ready to learn. They used AAC devices to communicate preferences and choose items for personalized sensory bins. The activity encouraged self-advocacy, communication and personal choice while helping students identify tools that could support their participation throughout the school day.

Teamwork and Adventure at Sierra School of South Mountain

At Sierra School of South Mountain, adventure, teamwork, and learning also came together during the ESY Survivor Series. Students took part in an interactive “Survivor”-themed experience filled with creativity and collaboration.

Throughout the series, students developed tribe names, created immunity idols, built rafts, tackled obstacle courses, and constructed their own tiki hut. These activities strengthened fine motor skills, gross motor development, communication, and problem-solving. Along the way, students practiced teamwork, celebrating successes and working together to overcome challenges.

Growth and Independence at Sierra School of Gateway

At Sierra School of Gateway, students settled into new classrooms and routines. During ESY, they explored U.S. history through engaging, hands-on lessons, built independence and self-advocacy skills, strengthened social-emotional learning, and practiced important life skills through daily routines and collaborative activities. Weekly student-led breakfasts and an end-of-ESY celebration gave students opportunities to lead, build friendships, and have fun, making it a summer full of growth.

By the end of ESY, students across Sierra Schools of Arizona had new skills to carry into the 2026-2027 school year and plenty of accomplishments to celebrate.