Students participating in Lyons Township High School’s summer math and reading programs will only have to pay half the regular fee this year — and if they pass, they won’t have to pay anything at all.

The Lyons Township Board of Education approved a recommendation that will allow participants to pay $77.50, half the full fee. If a student completes and passes the programs, they will get that money back, which would make the program free.

Scott Eggerding, director of curriculum and instruction for Lyons Township, said the programs will be available to incoming Lyons Township High School freshmen who have poor math, reading and writing skills.

“We requested that the board approve a half-tuition rate for students so upon completion it would be free,” Eggerding said. “We want to offer (students) incentives.”
The programs will be held June 18 to July 26 and will consist of two-hour sessions each day.

“We’re hoping to make the program larger,” Eggerding said. “Last year we only had about 45 students participate.”

The program, now in its third year, will allow the incoming freshmen a smooth transition into their classes once school begins in the fall, Eggerding said.

“Previous students who placed (into the program) did not fail the following semester,” he said. “They also get used to the south campus and how it works.”

The board also decided that transportation to the programs would be provided to students if needed. The board has received a bus fee quote but was looking for a more affordable option.

“We want to make it as easy as possible,” said Jennifer Bialobok, director of community relations.