Lights On Afterschool, a national initiative to highlight the importance of quality after-school programs, was celebrated Oct. 22 by Dorchester County Public Schools S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics). Participating schools opened their doors to families and the public to introduce STEAM’s community partners and showcase activities available to the students.

Delegate Sheree Sample-Hughes for District 37-A, was on hand at Maple Elementary to issue a proclamation marking the event to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Henry Wagner and Terrell Sample, 21st Century Community Learning Centers coordinator for Dorchester County Public Schools.

Remarks by Dr. Wagner, as well as Board of Education President Phil Bramble, Assistant Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lorenzo Hughes and City Commissioner Gage Thomas challenged the students to build upon the opportunities offered by STEAM to create the best possible future for them.

STEAM students participated in various activities based around the theme of ‘staying healthy,’ including a demonstration of Shaolin Kempo Karate by Sensei Kevin Warner as well as growing a garden in a glove and an art project emphasizing the importance of eating a rainbow of foods.

Students at other participating schools welcomed community partners and visitors with fun activities. Sandy Hill Elementary hosted community partner Dorchester County 4-H Club, coordinator Navonne Owen, as well as using paint and melting wax to decorate seasonal pumpkins.

Community partner Youth Action Council with their coordinator Charlene Jones led a fitness program at Hurlock Elementary whom also received a proclamation from Hurlock Mayor Joyce Spratt. Choptank Elementary also welcomed the Youth Action Council along with the Girl Scouts’ Tedra Booker who will be starting community outreach troops at each of the participating elementary schools. In addition, Choptank students began working on a mural depicting their community which, when finished, will be on display at the school.

S.T.E.A.M., in conjunction with its community partners, offers high quality after-school programs in four Dorchester County schools.

S.T.E.A.M. is staffed by certified teachers who assist with homework and project based activities that make learning fun.

For more information about the program contact Terrell Sample, 21st Century Community Learning Centers Coordinator, at samplet@dcpsmd.org.