Many parents have chosen to take advantage of the afterschool program, Bridges, offered in Fillmore Unified School District. Now in its third year, the program serves over 400 students, providing a safe place from the moment school gets out until 6:00 PM. It is possible because of the California After School Education and Safety Grant known as ASES.

The staff of 24 energy driven young people are motivated to put together a high quality program, many hoping to go into education as a career. The program focuses on homework and academics with a hands-on, entertaining emphasis that is different from the school day. The SPARK PE program has been implemented at the sites and the kids are using equipment they would not have had. We have also added a Language Arts program called Lit Art at the elementary schools and Choices at the Middle School. As well as a social component called Second Steps that talks about how to get along and solve problems.

Teachers and principals are taking an interest in the after school program and are offering suggestions and help where they see a need, mentoring to the young after school activity leaders. Teachers are also expressing an interest in tutoring through the afterschool program, providing a more intensive learning environment twice a week.

The program is flourishing with the support of the District and the School sites. It is truly a gift in this unsettled time for families that are working long hours and need the extra support and help for their students that will hopefully lead to their success in school and life.