Ballmer Group Expands Free Summer Learning Program for Eligible Washington Schools

Ballmer Group is excited to announce the expansion of its free, full-day summer learning initiative to Washington State. DiscoverWorks serves students entering grades 1-9 and combines crucial academic instruction with enrichment activities that keep them energized and engaged. In its first year, the program will be offered at participating public, charter, and tribal schools in the Yakima and Puget Sound regions, where at least 50% of students qualify for free lunch, helping ensure access for students and families who need it most. It’s projected to serve about 10,000 students this summer. 

DiscoverWorks builds on the success of a program launched in Southeast Michigan in 2024, which grew to serve 27,000 students in 2025 and is expected to enroll up to 65,000 in 2026. Evaluation results show a threefold increase in students demonstrating proficiency in English Language Arts, and a twofold increase in students demonstrating proficiency in math, with the greatest improvements among students who started the program furthest behind academically. Families and educators reported high satisfaction, noting that students felt more prepared and confident heading into the next school year. 

“Summer programs are powerful drivers of student success,” said Connie Ballmer, Co-Founder of Ballmer Group. “Schools want to provide more summer learning opportunities for students, but many can’t afford to. DiscoverWorks helps fill that gap. It provides a safe, engaging place for kids to learn and grow over the summer, with strong results for students and meaningful support for families.” 

“High-quality summer learning is a critical investment in the future,” said Steve Ballmer, Co-Founder of Ballmer Group. “We hope that this inaugural DiscoverWorks summer program is a success in Washington and leads other districts to participate next year.” 

In Southeast Michigan, 84% of families felt the program enhanced their children’s personal development, and 90% said they would enroll their children again next year. 

In Washington, DiscoverWorks will be implemented by the Association of Educational Service Districts (AESD), which supports the state’s nine Educational Service Districts. The program will launch first in Educational Service District 105 (Yakima area) and Puget Sound ESD 121 (Seattle area). In Michigan, the program is implemented by the United Way for Southeastern Michigan and operates in Macomb, Wayne, and Oakland counties. DiscoverWorks supports schools by offering flexible curriculum options, including the Lavinia RISE curriculum, as well as opportunities for teacher training. 

The expansion builds on Ballmer Group’s longstanding investments in early learning and K–12 education in Washington State, including the recent investment to help dramatically expand access to the state’s Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP).  

About DiscoverWorks 
DiscoverWorks addresses the need for greater access to high-quality summer programming for students and families. The program supports academic growth, enrichment, career exploration, and family engagement, while providing students with fun, meaningful learning experiences at no cost to families. To learn more about the program in Washington, visit the DiscoverWorks Washington website.