6.6. SR 06-21-2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

District 728 Community Education Philosophy for Middle School Activities The mission of Community Education, to build a sense of community through citizen involvement and lifelong learning, applies to middle school students and activities. Community Education's middle school programs will be built on the knowledge that participation in after school activities supports academic success, community pride, student self-esteem and character building. Research shows that the after school hours are challenging for students regarding use of time and choice of appropriate, healthy activities, therefore middle school activities must be available immediately after school in a convenient and accessible format. Emphasis must be on variety/choices, learning opportunities, and maximum participation, regardless of ability. Cooperation, teamwork, self-discipline, leadership, and numerous other skills can be attained through these activities. Activities are intended to enhance the educational experience as an extension of the school day. Youth and their parents need to be involved in the planning and evaluation of activities to ensure a quality program is maintained. Staff and volunteers that provide the leadership for students in these activities must have a combination of knowledge, experience, and a genuine desire to be involved with middle school youth. Partnerships with community organizations will be welcomed and duplication of services avoided. Sponsors and contributions will also be sought to provide the funding necessary to offer a well-rounded program, keeping the participation fees reasonable for families. What Outcomes are we Hoping to Achieve? Youth attending the programs will: . gain new knowledge/skills in areas of interest to them . have positive, supportive relationships with adult leaders . develop and enhance positive relationships with peers . exhibit appropriate social behavior Athletics & Activities Sports, clubs and other enrichment experiences are offered after school for grades 6-8. These opportunities are held immediately after dismissal on school days, coordinated by District 728 Community Education for the school district. Activities generally meet twice a week, but there are some exceptions. Most activities are offered for grades 6-8 together, unless there are enough participants to divide by grade levels. There are four seasons offered, Fall I, Fall II, Winter and Spring. Examples of activities offered include: Soccer. Basketball. Bowling · Volleyball · Danceline . Drama · Speech. Art Club · Crafts · Ski and Snowboard Trips. Speed & Agility. Track and Field. Technology. (such as Lego Robotics, Web Design, Video, etc) . Tennis. Chess · Open Gym. After Class Club . Cooking/Snacks. Jazz Band. Choir. Ensembles (some music opportunities are also held early morning). Additional after school, evening, weekend and summer activities are offered as well, including Languages. Fitness · Math/Reading Help · Guitar. Voice & Piano Lessons · Safety programs, and others. It continues to be a challenge to build the after school program into a program that can cover its own expenses. Success with activities has varied. Activity offerings are limited by the number of instructors or staff available at that time of day, the number of interested students who register for the opportunities, fees, and transportation.