EXTENSION YOUTH ACTIVITY CAMP: A “HANDS-ON” SUMMER PROGRAM PROVIDING SCIENCE-BASED CLASSES FOR AT-RISK ELEMENTARY STUDENTS
4-H & Youth
Mark Heitstuman
Extension Director & Interim State 4-H Program Director
Washington State University
ASOTIN
Abstract
Local needs assessments conducted by the WSU Asotin County Extension Office documented the need for quality summer educational programs for underprivileged and at-risk youth in the Lewis-Clark Valley. Since 2001, over 600 youth in the 2nd through 6th grades have participated in the annual Extension Youth Activity Camps (EYAC). EYAC is held each afternoon during a week in late July or early August. The camp strives to provide experientially-based science activities for at-risk students. Three to 5 different classes are offered in 2-hour time blocks, with a healthy snack provided between classes. Free lunch is available to all camp participants beginning at 12:30 p.m. The cost of the camp has been kept low ($20 per participant) thanks to grants from area businesses and organizations. Camp fees are waived upon request for low-income youth. Class topics have included: Lewis and Clark Expedition; Awesome Ag Adventures; Gardening for Kids; Aerospace; Lego Robotics; and Outdoor Fun. Class instructors have included 4-H adult and teen leaders; Master Gardeners; Extension staff from WSU and the University of Idaho; and individuals representing over 20 different agencies and organizations. Sixty percent of those surveyed rated the educational value of the camp as highly valuable, with the remaining 40% indicating the camp was valuable. In additional to increasing each child’s knowledge of science; parents also indicated that the camp developed critical thinking, decision making and teamwork life skills in each youth. This presentation will discuss how the EYAC model can be used to teach science to at-risk youth.
Authors: Heitstuman, M. D.
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Heitstuman, M. D. Director, Washington State University Asotin County Extension, Washington, 99402