The Summer Rising program is in full swing, and some students got a visit from Schools Chancellor Meisha Ross Porter Wednesday.

First, they play, then they learn. Wednesday's theme at P.S. 81 was water, and the second and third graders were enjoying every drop.

The chancellor was pumped about it too.

"I wasn't supposed to, but I couldn't help myself," she says.

After a quick dip and some dancing, Porter checked in on some of the classes.

The Department of Education says more than 200,000 kids signed up for Summer Rising across the city.

"Our schools are safe, and our students are learning. The best learning that happens happens between students and teachers in classrooms as we saw today," Porter adds.

What makes the program more personal is that each of the schools involved are teaming up with local organizations such. as the Greater Ridgewood Youth Council.

"This is really their introduction back into school and that's what they really need, you know, not just academics but let's have fun again," says Bob Monahan, of Greater Ridgewood Youth Council.

Summer Rising wraps up the middle of August. Organizers are hoping to launch the program again next summer.