District 13 summer recreation program adds activities

District 13’s summer recreation program is in full swing this summer, with children happily playing games, creating art and enjoying other activities at the Howell and Willow Road Schools.

The program included new features this year, according to program head Denise DeMeo. A live DJ played for a party at the Willow Road School, and a new staff member, Andrea Colletti, brought her artistic talents to the table. Colletti owns Fun4UFaces, which runs events for children. She introduced face painting, balloon crafts and other activities this year.

The program is staffed by district faculty and volunteers from Valley Stream’s high schools. It alternates each year between the James A. Dever and Wheeler Avenue Schools, and the Howell Road and Willow Road buildings. DeMeo said that enrollment was slightly lower this year than last because a hockey program at the James A. Dever School helps attract children when the recreation program is held there.