Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for Horizons?

Students attending Hartford public schools who are in Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten and are eligible for federal free/reduced-price lunch are eligible to apply for the program. In 2021, Horizons at The Ethel Walker School will serve students in grades Pre-K through Seventh. Preference is given to siblings. Unfortunately, we are not able to serve children with serious learning or behavioral issues due to limited space and resources.

Where does the summer program take place?

The summer academic program takes place at The Ethel Walker School, 230 Bushy Hill Road, Simsbury, CT.

Students' swim instruction takes place on campus in the Centennial Aquatic Center.

When is the summer program?

The summer program runs for six weeks, from June through August. Students attend the program Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

What does Horizons cost?

Horizons at The Ethel Walker School is a full scholarship program. The only fee for families is a one-time $25 registration fee, which covers the first year and all subsequent years of Horizons enrollment. You pay this fee only if your child is accepted to the program.

Is transportation provided?

Yes - Horizons at The Ethel Walker School provides bus transportation to and from the program. Parents will receive detailed transportation information if their daughter is accepted into the program.

Are meals provided?

Yes - students enjoy a nutritious breakfast, lunch, and snack each day of the six-week summer session.

What is the attendance policy?

Attendance is mandatory, and students are expected to attend the program every day for the full six weeks. It is of utmost importance that every student arrive on time for the bus every morning, and be picked up on time from the bus stop every afternoon.

When will I receive admissions notification from Horizons?

We will inform you in late May if your daughter has been enrolled in the program.

How will COVID-19 impact the summer program? 

The safety of our students, families, staff and communities are of utmost importance to us. Horizons staff are working closely with the COVID-19 Task Force at The Ethel Walker School to monitor health risks and case rates. At this time, Horizons has prepared full plans for three possible program formats: virtual, hybrid, or in-person. Any potential in-person components will be in full compliance with CT guidelines, including advanced cleaning procedures, social distancing, and mask policies. As much as we would love to see each other in-person this summer, we will be monitoring the state of the pandemic in the coming weeks before announcing the format of the summer program.