Horizons National's Summer Advantage

Across the country, **Horizons National** is helping change that. With more than 70 affiliated programs, the national nonprofit partners with schools to provide high-quality summer learning experiences that help students stay engaged academically while opening doors to new opportunities. At Lexington Montessori School, Director **Maricarmen Sullivan** and longtime Horizons student **Mayelis Burgos-Sanchez** share what that looks like in practice—and why its impact extends far beyond the classroom. Together, they discuss: - how Horizons helps prevent summer learning loss - why meaningful relationships are just as important as academics - creating opportunities through swimming, enrichment, and hands-on learning - how Montessori principles support students from underserved communities - the role families, educators, and local partners play in expanding opportunity - what one student's journey reveals about the lasting impact of investing in children Whether it's discovering a love of learning, gaining confidence in the water, or simply being surrounded by adults who believe in their potential, this conversation is a reminder that when children are given meaningful opportunities, six weeks can shape far more than a summer. Contact Us: humanpotential@amshq.org **Educating the Human Potential** is a podcast about optimizing education for a better society, through a Montessori lens. Hosts **Nicole Coman**, a licensed educational psychologist specializing in school psychology and child development -- and a "Montessori mom" -- and **Biff Maier**, an American Montessori Society Living Legacy with decades of experience as a Montessori educator and school leader, engage with experts, educators, parents, and students. Each episode explores strategies to unlock human potential, offering thought-provoking conversations on learning, child development, and the evolving landscape of education. This podcast is presented by AMS, the American Montessori Society. **For more information about Montessori education, visit** https://amshq.org/about-montessori/ **And consider this AMS course for families interested in incorporating the Montessori philosophy into their day-to-day lives and parenting approach:** https://learn.amshq.org/parent-course-early-childhood Contact us: humanpotential@amshq.org