Park Elementary began an after-school program in October 2007 that was funded through TANIF.  This latch-key program was designed to provide low income students with the opportunity to receive extra educational assistance, nutritious snacks, quality socialization activities, and most of all...time to enjoy being a child.  An average of 40-50 students participated each day (from a school with a population of 125).  Through the enjoyment of playtime incorporated into the program, a special bond was woven between the students and staff.

Thanks to funding received from Zone 7 Action for Healthy Kids, a variety of new physical activity equipment was purchased.  The younger students had a ball with the "paddleloon" sets.  This equipment helped improve hand/eye coordination by using the paddles to bat balloons.  The set also came with foam balls and solid balls for older students.  The older children also had a great time using new tennis and badminton sets, footballs, kickballs and basketballs.

A few old time favorite items were also purchased- skip-its and jump ropes.  As an instructor, it brought back many childhood memories jumping and skipping with the students.  They, of course, found it funny to see an adult having fun with the equipment too.

Through this play time, the students learned many important ideas:

1. the importance of sharing and taking turns

2. the importance of following rules

3. exercise can be fun

4. skills that can spill over into adult games (tennis, badminton, racquetball, etc.)

5. learning new things can be enjoyable

6. with practice, comes improvement

This program was such a success that there were even students who didn't qualify due to income who wanted to stay and participate in the after-school sessions as well.  We want to thank Ohio AFHK Zone 7 for funding our project and are already making plans for additional activities for the next school year.

• School District has a School Wellness Policy.  (Willing to share a copy)
• School District has an active school health team.
• Date Program Began: October 1, 2007
• Level of Success: Building Level
• Length of Time to accomplish success: 1-6 months
• Instrumental Factors: Administrative Support, Funding
• People Impacted by Program: 50 students, 5 school staff members
• Funding Source: TANIF Grant
• Costs: Materials/Supplies- $100-$500