Bigger Sky Kids Program Off To Strong Start In Wolf Point

The Bigger Sky Kids program is off to another fantastic start this school year. The after-school program has about 40 students registered this fall.

“This is about the most,” program director Barbara Olson said of the turnout. “We’ve had almost 60 registered but they don’t come on the same day.”

A new activity this year is on Wednesdays when Northside School librarian Mark Holman comes and teaches the students about robotics.

“They really like it,” Olson said of the students.

Art activities are still some of the favorite days at the program held at First Lutheran Church in Wolf Point.

“Throughout the year, we try to adapt,” Olson said.

Students enjoy make art creations with craft sticks and clothes pins. “Paint markers are also popular,” Olson said.

The program meets from 4:15-5:30 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Students in fourth, fifth and sixth graders are encouraged to attend. The program will also be available to thirdgrade students later in the school year.

Each day, students receive a full snack as they arrive after completing their school day. Macaroni and cheese is a favorite of the students. Other hits include fruit.

Volunteers are needed for Wednesday’s programs. Young helpers this year include Mya Brownlee and Emma Kawasaki.

Goals of the program are helping students: explore and express their creativity through visual arts, music, dance, drama and more; experience domestic arts such as cooking, sewing and gardening; and acquire computer literacy and other life skills.

Board members are Char Matejovsky as president, Olson as treasurer and Pat Stennes as program committee member. Support for Bigger Sky Kids comes entirely from donations, specified gifts and occasional grants. The program is cost-free to participating students.