Summer Programs

School’s out, Seaford summer recreation is in

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Seaford’s summer recreation program is growing up. Now in its 10th year, children in the community can spend their weekday mornings at school, but without the books and the tests.

Created by Bill Dietz and Ralph Pascarella, a pair of phys. ed. teachers in the Seaford School District, the program has grown beyond their expectations. This year, about 175 children are participating, with is consistent with past enrollment.

Children are split into different groups based on age, and are led by a staff of mostly local high school and college students. Daily activities at the Seaford Manor School include arts and crafts, sports, games, snack, circus arts and more. The four-week program is open to children entering kindergarten through sixth grade.

“It’s a great environment,” Pascarella said. “There’s a lot going on, a variety of different things.”

He noted that some campers want to play sports, while others prefer the arts, so the staff always tries to accommodate their wishes.

Olivia Irwin, who will be a third-grader at Seaford Harbor School in the fall, said her favorite activities include art projects and juggling. She enjoys spending the summer with her friends, and meeting other children from the community.

Everyone agrees that the staff makes the program successful. “The counselors are nice and they play with us,” Olivia said.

Staff members can be easily spotted in their pink T-shirts with a 10th anniversary logo. “Great staff, they want to be here,” Pascarella said. “Every year, most of the staff wants to come back.”

Amanda Podmeyer, 25, a Seaford High School graduate, is working there for the second year. The head counselor oversees children ages 4-6. Her responsibilities including taking the kids to the different activities, making sure they have water and sunscreen, and ensuring their safety. Most importantly, she says she wants to make sure that they are having fun. “I think each kid goes home with a smile each day,” she said.

Podmeyer said her campers love the various water activities. As a teacher during the year, she says it is rewarding to her to see them form new friendships.

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