Elijah Broughton estimates he has put together at least five jigsaw puzzles this summer in addition to completing numerous arts and crafts projects. That’s in addition to walking several miles.
Broughton is one of several students taking advantage of the Oklahoma 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which offers students the opportunity to spend their summer mornings doing arts and crafts or playing board games in the libraries at MacArthur High School and Lawton High School. Or, in the case of Broughton and others at MacArthur High School, walking a mile around the track every morning.
The centers, which are funded through a 21st Century grant, provide high school students the opportunity to get out of the house, socialize with their peers, get some exercise and maybe learn a new hobby. Students at Lawton High School made some blankets last month which they intend to donate to the Lawton Animal Shelter.
At Lawton High School, Piper McFarland was getting some one-on-one assistance with a diamond art project.
“It’s my first time here,” said McFarland, who enjoys making jewelry and makes bracelets at home. “My mom found out about the camp through a recommendation on Facebook.”
Natalia Lund said her mother suggested that she attend the camp.
“It’s been a goal this summer to get out of the house more,” she said.
Supplies, which are paid for with a federal grant, were strewn around several tables in the libraries at both schools, waiting for students to paint a rock, play a game, crochet an item or create some jewelry.
The centers are free of charge to any student in Lawton Public Schools in ninth through 12th grade and includes a free breakfast and lunch. LPS will provide transportation to and from the high schools.
“The bus will pick them up at their house and drop them off at their house,” said Misty Neal, one of the camp advisers at Lawton High.
The camp will continue from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Thursday through July 24. Students may either show up or register by emailing Debbie Brown at debbie.brown@lawtonps.org to arrange transportation.