Free full day summer fun for middle school students

Make summer awesome by preregistering for these free classes offered to Washington County students entering grades six through nine. In keeping with the CAST mission to encourage students to become contributing citizens who develop critical life skills and a lifelong passion for learning, CAST is offering these opportunities for students to gain specific skills that they can carry with them as adults.  

“With every program or opportunity we offer, we are really intentional about making sure that we are investing in the future of our students and our entire community,” said CAST Director Cassie Summers-Corp. “Students who participate in these classes this summer will be our workforce in just a few short years and they are worth the investment.  I really hope that students will register and be a part of this unique and free opportunity!”  

All classes are held at Southern Hills Church and will be offered as full day programs on certain Tuesdays and Thursdays this summer. Each day is full of creative opportunities to learn practical skills in a safe and supportive environment and is complete with a free provided lunch. 

Class descriptions: 

June 5, 7, 12, 14: Art Class: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Lunch: 12-1 p.m., Life Skills 101: 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Art Class:  These classes will be taught by Rosanne Quatroke of Art Gives Back and Josh Lewis of the Salem Leader.  Rosanne will be teaching painting and each student will leave with their own beautiful art pieces.  Josh is an award winning photographer and journalist and will be teaching students how to express their own creativity through this medium.  

Life Skills 101: Presented in partnership with Joni Muchler, Washington County Extension Educator - Health and Human Sciences, this class is full of practical skills. Students will learn how to do things that everyone should know how to do before they become an adult. Including but not limited to: changing a tire, cooking easy meals, simple budgeting, etc. 

July 10, 12, 24, 26: Cooking Class: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Lunch: 12-1 p.m., STEM Challenge: 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Cooking Class:  Students will learn from a qualified chef and will follow instructions to cook and prepare our lunch for these days.  Students will leave knowing some simple cooking techniques and be able to prepare and serve two complete meals.

STEM Challenges: In this class students will explore science, technology, engineering, and math concepts to solve problems and think critically through fun challenges.  

This program is completely free, but parents must call Cassie Corp at 812-620-7907 to reserve slots for their student. Space is limited. Students must register for the entire month of classes – there is no individual class option.  Register early to make sure your student has an extraordinary summer!