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| After-school program is where it's at |
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| MONMOUTH/INDEPENDENCE -- Angela Billman's two children began attending Project Prime Time during their respective first years at Independence Elementary School.
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 | | Photo by Adam Korst | | Central School District's Project Prime Time after-school program has proven popular. Christian Lua receives help with his homework. |
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By Craig Coleman
MONMOUTH/INDEPENDENCE -- Angela Billman's two children began attending Project Prime Time during their respective first years at Independence Elementary School.
Her daughter started fifth grade this fall, and her son, third grade. And they're still excited about the after-school program, which offers a plethora of science, art and sports activities.
"If I have to pick them up early, especially my son, there's always a big freak out," Billman said with a laugh. "'Do I have to go?'"
Central School District's popular initiative, featured at all four of its elementary schools, is entering its sixth year and is as big a draw as ever.
Officials also debuted this fall programming and tutoring for students at Talmadge Middle School and Central High.
 | | Photo by Adam Korst | | Alexander Ortiz enjoys throwing a flying disc outside during Project Prime Time. |
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About 240 children are enrolled in the elementary programs, while 30 students are regularly attending both secondary programs, said Dorie Vickery, administrator for after-school programs.
"A lot of parents feel it's beneficial and safe supervised time," she said.
And "we're filling up fast," she added, noting a 60-student limit at the elementary schools. "At Henry Hill Elementary and IES, there's already a waiting list."
Both programs are funded through federal 21st Century Community Learning Center grants. Central received an award in June -- worth almost $800,000 over five years -- for the high school and middle school programs.
Elementary school children receive 50 minutes of theme-based learning and 50 minutes of enrichment classes that range from sports, crafts, computer/technology and music four days a week. | | Photo by Adam Korst | | Elijah Trigg works on an arts project. The program has something for everyone. |
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Lessons are led by instructors from Salem Art Association and Salem-based AC Gilbert House.
"It offers them something to do besides going home and watching TV," said Erica Rodriguez, the mother of two IES children who take part in the program. "They learn a lot of new stuff."
Talmadge and Central High's programs were aimed at dropout prevention among at-risk teens, Vickery said.
Nearly 40 Western Oregon University education undergraduates provide help with homework, or students can also kick back and get a warm meal at a supervised social hangout hosted by the Gate Youth Association across the street at Independence First Baptist Church.
According to Oregon Afterschool Alliance, 30 percent of K-12 students in the state are responsible for taking care of themselves after school, and only 10 percent of all children take part in after-school programs.
"You see a real cross section of kids coming here, ones that might not interact with one another at school do so here," said Joyce Wahl, a retired principal who supervises the Central High program. "I see this as a chance for them to form meaningful (connections)."
Vickery said district teachers surveyed about the programs generally report that those students attending for 30 days or more exhibit improved behavior and are more timely in turning in homework.
"We know that we're keeping children from falling further behind and giving them an extended time to work," Vickery said. "They're holding their literacy levels, or getting them up."
One thing that makes Central's program unique from others is assigning two classified staff members from each building to the activities. Many schools will contract with outside agencies to run the programs.
Vickery said the staff aids in monitoring students, and provide a valuable link to the children, parents and teachers.
"They're not coming in as complete strangers, they're part of the kids' regular day," Vickery said.
Enrollment for elementary students in Prime Time is $100 for a 12- to 14-week session, and $50 for students who qualify for free and/or reduced lunch. Enrichment classes for middle and high school students are $50 per session. Tutoring and other activities are free.
For more information: 503-606-2332.
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