The Columbia Summer SUNsation is a FREE summer program operated by the Columbia Public Schools open to all Columbia students from pre-kindergarten (children entering kindergarten Fall 2026) through grade 7.  

The Summer SUNsation program is scheduled daily from June 1 – June 26. (School will not be in session on June 19.) Summer programs operate at the same time schedule as the regular school year. Start/end times are listed on the district website CPS School Start Times

The elementary summer program operates in all elementary schools except:

• Derby Ridge Elementary → Alpha Hart Lewis Elementary
• Mill Creek Elementary → Beulah Ralph Elementary
• New Haven Elementary → Rock Bridge Elementary

*Note:  Eagle Bluffs Elementary does not open until Fall 2026.  K-5 students attend the school attendance area for 2025-26, or parents can register for a different elementary but will need to provide transportation.

The middle school summer program operates in all middle schools except:

• Gentry Middle School → Rock Bridge High School
• Smithton Middle School → West Middle School

Each morning students are involved in academic lessons that help students continue learning during the summer and prepare them for the next school year. Afternoon courses provide students with new adventures such as constructing models, solving puzzles, and creating new “worlds” on Minecraft. Afternoon courses emphasize “learning by doing” activities that combine fun and thinking skills.  Course descriptions are available on the district website CPS Summer School.

Bus transportation is provided using the same regular school year guidelines. Summer bus stops are determined on enrollment forms received by April 25. Bus route information will be available on CPS Family Portal after May 28. Students attending a school other than their home school because of summer maintenance will be bused to their summer school location.  Parent transportation must be provided for students attending a school outside of their assigned attendance area.

Nutrition Services will run the same as the school year. Free and reduced sites are:  Alpha Hart Lewis, Benton, Battle HS, Blue Ridge, CORE, Cedar Ridge, Eliot Battle, Field, Hickman HS, Jefferson MS, Lange MS, Locust Street Expressive Arts, Midway, Oakland MS, Parkade, Paxton Keeley, Ridgeway, Russell, Shepard, West Blvd, West MS.

Starting March 2, 2026 you may enroll your Columbia Public School (CPS) Student(s) and Non-CPS Students on this page.

Join us for our Summer School Open House on May 28, 2026 where students and families can meet teachers and get important information before classes begin. 

• Elementary schools: 4:30-6:00 p.m.
• Middle School and High School:  5:00-6:30 p.m. 

These open houses allow families to ask questions about courses, schedules, and expectations, ensuring a smooth start to the summer learning experience. Families can pick up class schedules, tour the school, and learn about available resources.