A display shows the results of students’ work on the summer enrichment program. (Courtesy Greater Lowell Technical High School)

Superintendent Jill Davis is pleased to share that approximately 130 Greater Lowell Technical High School ninth-graders and 43 student leaders participated in the 2024 Summer Enrichment Program.

The program empowered students to develop and apply 21st-century learning skills through hands-on, real-world projects, while also enhancing their leadership abilities.

This year’s program, held over three weeks in July, used Project-Based Learning (PBL) to immerse students in the theme of “Building Community.” PBL encourages students to strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills by addressing complex questions or challenges.

Incoming 9th-grade students worked alongside student leaders to investigate real-world issues, collaborate on solutions, and create presentations showcasing their findings. The students had the opportunity to select from various topics, including health, environment, culture, business, wildlife protection, and community service. They were then grouped to explore their chosen projects.

Through teamwork and collaboration, students researched, developed, and hosted a final showcase where they presented their work to family, friends, Summer Enrichment Program staff and school administrators. Projects included handmade models, self-published books, and a website accessible via QR code, among other creative outputs.

Many students expressed excitement and gratitude for the experience. Ninth-grade student Hailey Mosher from Lowell shared, “It was fun meeting new people and doing the projects.” Another 9th-grader added, “It helped me make new friends with people outside my grade and classes.” Eleventh-grade Electronics student leader, Arimel Ramirez Zabala, of Lowell, reflected, “I learned how to lead others to work better in a team,” while sophomore Medical Assisting student leader Hafsoh Alimi from Lowell noted, “I felt like I was truly part of a community and enjoyed leading and learning with my peers.”

With the highest participation and attendance rates in the program’s eight-year history, the 2024 Summer Enrichment Program gave students the chance to build essential skills, familiarize themselves with the campus, and foster a sense of belonging within the school community.

“I’m incredibly proud of our student leaders and incoming 9th graders for their dedication over the summer,” said Superintendent Davis. “Their final presentations were outstanding and taught students problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills that will serve them well as we continue to build community here at Greater Lowell Technical High School. This has been our best year yet, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for the program.”