LEARN HOW STUDENTS CAN EARN BETTER GRADES,
IMPROVE BEHAVIOR, AND MISS LESS SCHOOL

Middle Earth and the Bound Brook Board of Education Invites Community to
NJ Celebrates Afterschool!

Students at Middle Earth’s 21st Century Community Learning Center afterschool program look forward to the fun activities, new friends, and snack time each day, but the benefits go far beyond fun. Afterschool participants are more likely to complete schoolwork on time, improve their grades and test scores, and strengthen self-esteem. On May 28, 2010, Middle Earth’s 21st Century Community Learning Center will share its program with the community at NJ Celebrates Afterschool! Activities for all ages, student performances and demonstrations will take place.   

Each day approximately 120 youth participate in Middle Earth’s 21st Century Community Learning Center program.  “We make a real difference in the lives of children and their families,” says Maggie Navatto, program director.

Middle Earth’s afterschool program is funded by a grant from the New Jersey Department of Education through its 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program. All 21st  Century Community Learning Centers offer enriching activities in math, science, art, music, tutoring, positive youth development, and physical activity. They also provide drug, violence, and gang awareness education programs and create opportunities for parental involvement. Last year, 15,000 children in New Jersey participated in 21st Century Community Learning Centers.

Nationally, studies show that high-quality afterschool programs can improve the odds of success, particularly for children whose personal circumstances put them at higher risk for school failure. Children in afterschool programs score higher on standardized tests, exhibit more positive social behavior, and are less likely to use drugs.

For more information regarding this celebration or about the program, please contact Maggie Navatto at 908.725.7223.