Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco’s (BGCSF) summer programs are in full swing, and the energy and enthusiasm of our youth are truly inspiring. From STEM Fairs to field trips and career exposure events, our members are participating in activities that provide unique opportunities to explore new places, build lasting memories, and have fun while learning.

We were pleased to sit down with the Brian Sauer, our Citywide Director of Education, to talk about BGCSF’s summer academic programs. Brian, a dedicated father of three, has a quiet passion for education that truly shines through in our programs. Here's a glimpse into our conversation:

Q1: Can you share a brief overview of BGCSF's summer academic programming and what activities are available to youth?

Brian: Absolutely! This summer, we're offering a variety of programs designed to engage our youth in fun and educational activities. From literacy and book clubs to math enrichment and STEM activities, there's something for everyone. Our goal is to make learning enjoyable while preventing summer learning loss and reinforcing important academic skills.

Q2: How do these programs contribute to the overall mission of BGCSF?

Brian: Our mission is to ensure that youth are ready for life by age 18. Through our summer programs, we help reinforce the skills and concepts they learn during the school year. For example, our literacy programs focus on the four pillars: reading, writing, listening, and speaking, while our STEM activities foster problem-solving and critical thinking.

Q3: We're excited about the Spelling Bee and Quiz Bowl. How do these events reinforce the goals of our education programs?

Brian: Both events are fantastic opportunities for our youth to apply what they've learned in a fun, competitive environment. The Spelling Bee, now in its 7th or 8th year, helps elementary students build vocabulary and literacy skills. The Quiz Bowl, which is new this year, will challenge middle school students in various subjects like geography, science, and history. These events not only reinforce academic skills but also build confidence and teamwork.

Q4: Can you share any memorable moments or success stories from past summer programs?

Brian: One highlight that comes to mind is last year's Spelling Bee. The excitement and determination of the kids were palpable. One of our winners from the Excelsior Clubhouse shared how the event boosted her confidence in public speaking and literacy. These moments remind us of the impact our programs have on youth development.

Q5: What are the current needs of the program, and how can supporters help?

Brian: To continue providing these enriching experiences, we need support for field trip transportation, art supplies, and funding to bring in educational partners. Donations of books and financial contributions for academic materials are always helpful. Right now, we're also looking for creative contributions for our events.

Learn more about BGCSF’s academic programming here! 

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