Wednesday, November 15, 2000

Ever since she turned 6, Dawson-Bryant Middle School student Sarah Russell wanted to be a singer.

"My parents said that I wouldn’t be able to try it until I had my education first," she said "I thought that this would be a good start."

Miss Russell is one of many students who started the After School Mall music class Tuesday at Dawson-Bryant middle and elementary schools.

Students stay after school for Mondays through Thursdays to get involved with things that can’t be offered during the school day.

Music appreciation, sign language, Math Madness, a Harry Potter book club, accelerated reader program, piano lessons, fitness and crazy science experiments, as well as tutoring and homework help are just a few After School Mall classes taught by professionals, retired teachers and community volunteers.

It’s enrichment for the youth as well as an opportunity for the working parent to not worry about their child until they return home from work, school officials said.

Students are fed a snack right after school, then the class programs start about 3 p.m. at the elementary. The programs end at 4:30 p.m. and the students are transported home.

On Friday, only homework help is offered, and there is no transportation home.

The middle school offers the same program, from 3-5 p.m., but with different classes. Both programs are funded by the district’s 21st Century grant.