After school program in Kilgore

As part of the after school program, the children got to view pictures from India during one of their snack session. (clockwise front left) Shelby Henson, Abbie Cox, LaChristyle Henderson, Barbara Kiser (volunteer), RuthAnne Camp (volunteer), Austin Moore, Chance Coffman and Mason Lenoir. (provided photo) The First Presbyterian Church, Presbyterian Children's Homes and Services and Kilgore Together are working in partnership to provide an after-school program for elementary school students.

Called 'Stepping Up,' the program began in November.

Sheila Arnold, teacher, said the program provides a fun, safe place for children after school.

Arnold said the program currently offers activities for third grade students at Chandler which ride the bus to the Presbyterian Church after school. This summer, Stepping Up will begin enrollment for the fall and will include second grade students but enrollment is limited.

Arnold said the program begins with snacks, then playground time followed by social skill lessons, crafts and they complete the day with homework. The children are picked up by their parents at 5:30 p.m.

Arnold said the program is fortunate to have strong parental involvement which provides the children the opportunity to make new friends and build relationships with caring mentors.

Ruth Anne Camp and Carolyn Martin are the two other teachers at the Stepping Up program which is at the Presbyterian Church at 815 E. Main St.. For further information contact Sheila Arnold at (903) 9833609.