22News inFocus: Summer learning

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Summer's here and school's out! For many children that means weeks of fun in the sun, and playing video games or watching TV, instead of spending 8 hours a day in a classroom. But what do these "months off" really mean for your child? New research suggests they could be doing your child more harm than good when it comes to their education.

This week on 22News inFocus we'll have several guests here to talk about summer learning initiatives and tell you what they'd mean for your child's future. Find out what free programs are available for your children this summer.

We'll also reveal an alarming learning gap for students here in western Massachusetts. A study shows that 62% of the children in Holyoke and Springfield are not reading proficiently by the 3rd grade, compared to the statewide average of 38%. Find out the reasons behind these numbers, and what local educators are doing to bridge the gap.

To find out more, visit the United Way's website at www.uwpv.org.