New program engages EMS students after school
Monday, March 1, 2010
After school time for middle school students now includes art, career exploration, life skills, special projects and, of course, video games. The new after school program, supported by the Safe Schools/Healthy Students initiative, began in January at Eudora Middle School and continues to grow.
“Overall, the program is a hands-on experience for the kids,” said program manager Yemen Shaaban. “The kids are the driving force of what they do — we target their interests and include the technology they love. We even have a Nintendo Wii system, which is fun and provides the opportunity for physical movement at the same time.”
Shaaban said the program is designed to encourage students to work together in teams and groups, rather than as individuals, to create a supportive social environment for all participants. Homework time is provided each day to underscore the importance of academic success.
They also have planned weekly visits to some of the district’s career and technical education programs to give participants early exposure to the kinds of options they’ll have in school and in life.
“We work hard to support these students as they grow into well-rounded, responsible teens who contribute to our community,” she said.
Activities are offered to EMS students every day after school, until 5:15 p.m. Registration by a parent is required, and Shaaban said that student numbers have been steadily increasing each week. Participation in the program costs $35 a week, but Shaaban emphasized that no student will be turned away for an inability to pay. (The fees for all middle school students are being waived this semester.)
“In short, our goal with this program is to provide a positive space to give kids an opportunity to discover new interests,” she said, “with supportive role models to help guide the way.”
As the program is established at Eudora Middle School, an after-school program also is being designed for the students at Eudora Elementary. The elementary program will have similar hours and registration and will include age-appropriate activities for younger students. Applications are currently being accepted for adult activity leader positions to help implement both programs. For more information, or to apply, go to www.eudoraschools.org/jobs.
