Are You Winter Break Ready?
A free checklist to help schools reduce learning loss, support equity, and keep students engaged during the holidays.
Is Your School or District Ready for Winter Break?
Even a short school break can disrupt learning momentum, especially for younger students and those already facing barriers to success.
The Winter Break Readiness Checklist is a quick, one-page tool for district and school leaders to evaluate readiness, spot gaps, and plan ahead - fast.
Use this checklist to confirm you have a plan to:
• Communicate with families before break
• Provide students with books and hands-on learning resources
• Keep learning momentum going over the holidays
• Support daily routines so students return ready to learn
This easy-to-use checklist helps you gauge your readiness, identify gaps, and set up students for a smooth transition back to school.
FREE CHECKLIST DOWNLOAD
Access the free checklist here! Fill out the form below.
Why Winter Break Learning Loss Deserves Attention
We’ve long recognized the impact of the “summer slide,” but studies show that learning loss doesn’t wait for summer. Even the two-week gap in December can set students back, particularly in reading fluency and comprehension. According to NWEA, younger learners in grades K–3 are most vulnerable, with measurable declines between fall and winter assessments.
For underserved students, the risks are even greater. Without access to age-appropriate books, reliable internet, or structured enrichment activities, these students often return from break further behind - widening existing opportunity gaps. Equity-focused districts know that small, intentional supports during winter break can make a big difference.
Supporting Families, Strengthening Schools
The transition back from winter break is one of the most challenging times of the school year. Teachers report spending 2 - 4 weeks reteaching routines and lost skills, which reduces valuable instructional time. By providing resources like take-home learning kits, SEL prompts, and family engagement activities, schools not only support student achievement but also build stronger partnerships with families.
Winter break doesn’t have to mean lost momentum. With the right tools, it can be a time for joy, rest, and meaningful learning at home. This Winter Break Readiness Checklist ensures that your district is prepared to keep every student on the path to success.
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