Shine
All children should have the opportunity to shine their brightest, but some kids have a tougher road than others.
Students from under-resourced communities are six times more likely to drop out of high school and fewer than one-third will enroll in college. Summer learning loss can make the problem worse and widen the achievement gap for students who already are disadvantaged. Without proper support, students experience a substantial and cumulative erosion of reading and math skills that can ultimately leave them years behind their peers.
Shine supports the Austin community.
Shine is a program of Trinity Episcopal School that supports families from under-resourced communities in Austin, Texas, in order to combat summer learning loss and boost student achievement. The program provides a dynamic curriculum, top-notch facilities, passionate educators, fun excursions, and other resources, at no cost to participating families. With a student-teacher ratio of 5:1, kids get an engaging experience that builds confidence and crucial skills.
About the Program
Shine's mission is to help underresourced students close the achievement gap by overcoming summer learning loss.
Meet the Staff
A team of staff and volunteers keep Shine's student-to-teacher ratio at 5:1, ensuring kids get the attention they need to thrive.
Executive Directors
Diana Clemens
Co-Executive Director
Diana has been with SHINE for three years, but this is her first as co-executive director. She retired from teaching in May 2023 after 30 years in public schools in Austin ISD. Over that time, she taught grades 1–5 and an opportunity to mentor fellow teachers. Diana loves the beach — it's her happy place! Her favorite is "Mamma Mia" and would like to be a bartender someday.
Chris Ernest
Co-Executive Director
Chris has been a part of the Shine team for eight years. In addition to co-leading Shine, he also teaches 8th grade students. During the school year, Chris serves as the Middle School Dean of Students at Trinity Episcopal School, where he has been for the last five years. He loves his family, Jesus, friends, food, and sneakers. When he is not teaching, Chris likes to explore new parks and restaurants with his wife, Avi, daughter, Caliyah, and son, CJ.
Shine Newsletters
We engage with students throughout the year, not just over the summer. See what's been happening!
