ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Students in a summer learning program at School Number 25 celebrated summer with a water day on Friday.
Eight water-themed stations were set up in the school’s courtyard, giving students a chance to rotate through activities like an inflatable water slide, water balloons, sensory water play and a dunk tank. The principal, Carrie Varno, said events like this help students stay engaged, making summer learning a positive experience.
“The kids are enjoying their summer. They have to be here, it’s a mandated service for our students. So if we can make this learning fun and engaging, they come back every single day,” Varno said. “And that’s what we want. We want them here.”
The fun isn’t over after water day. Principal Varno said students have other events coming up soon like carnival day and a few field trips.



Beyond having fun, Varno says water day helps build on skills they’ve been working on in the classroom such as hand-eye coordination, socialization, and getting the opportunity to engage with student and adults outside their daily routine.
The program serves pre-K through 12th grade students with individualized education plans who benefit from year-round learning and social engagement.
Related:
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- Rochester set to get first all-boys elementary charter school, aiming to focus on hands-on learning
- Guide to summer R-Center activities, youth camps, and pool activities
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