Children in the Regional After School Program (RASP) made "volcanoes," practiced computer skills and worked with craft beads on Thursday at Dickinson's Lincoln Elementary School.
The summer program began on June 4 and continues through Aug. 10 at Dickinson's Lincoln Elementary School.
"We're filled up with 150 kids," said project coordinator Lyndi Thom. "We don't have a waiting list because nobody ever leaves."
She said the program is open to all students in the community ages K-grade 6. Priority is given to parents of children who are enrolled in the year-long RASP program.
"The goal is to benefit children through structured recreational and educational activities in a caring, safe and positive atmosphere," she said.
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She said the program is funded through a three-year 21st Century Learning Grant. The program enters its third year in the fall.
She said the grant requires 70 percent of the day devoted to educational activities. Children rotate through an arts and crafts station, reading, computer lab, science and free play.
Children spend the day at Lincoln while their parents are at work. Transportation is provided for recreational activities.
"Parents are relieved they don't have to take off work to transport children to and from activities," she said. "They also like the different activities we provide for them; plus it's a very caring and safe place to be."
She said the 24-member staff includes college students, paraprofessionals and several parents.
"We give a snack every day and breakfast in the summer time. They bring sack lunches," she said.
