New Programs for Chicago Public Schools and Park District

This summer Chicago Public Schools will offer its new ‘Freshman Connection’ program for eighth graders,” according to a City Hall press release on May 1.

“Freshman Connection” is a four-week program that runs five days a week starting June 30. It has academic instruction in the morning and recreation activities in the afternoon at no cost to the students.

The program will be held at the students’ destination high schools, so it will give them a chance to become familiar with their new school and their new classmates. And that will make it easier to get used to the new routine of high school.

Hours of Operation Expanded for Park District Sports Program

This summer the Chicago Park District will allocate an additional $500,000 to expand its NeighborSports program to serve an additional 1,500 teen-agers,” according to the same City Hall press release.

For the first time, NeighborSports will be offered on Friday and Saturday nights until 10 p.m. at 20 sites in high crime neighborhoods. And the Park District also will be able to keep 17 swimming pools open until 9 p.m.

Altogether, this summer, After School Matters and other programs will provide more than 140,000 children the chance to participate in arts, computer and sports programs or have a summer job. It’s up to their parents to assure they take advantage of the opportunities we offer.