The Summer ACE Program is giving Rockville Centre students an opportunity to stay active, explore new interests and develop new skills through a variety of enrichment classes at South Side Middle School.
The enrichment program, which runs Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon through Aug. 6, has attracted about 450 students from the Rockville Centre School District, along with about 50 additional students from outside the district. About 60 teachers lead the different courses, with assistance from approximately 20 high school students who help support the program.
Unlike a traditional camp focused on one activity, Summer ACE allows students to choose from a wide selection of classes based on their interests. Offerings include sports such as pickleball, basketball, flag football and soccer, as well as arts and crafts, robotics, theatre, coding and a ninja class for younger students. Students attend three classes each day, with each session lasting about 55 minutes.
Program director Keith Eckert said the goal of the program is to provide students with opportunities to try activities they may not have experienced before. Classes also include unique offerings such as Dungeons & Dragons, where students can engage in strategy and creativity, and technology-based courses where students design puzzles and use tools such as laser cutters.
“We’re pretty proud that we kind of hit on everything that you would want,” Eckert said. “This is a great way for the kids to come in and try to do something or explore their talents, find a new talent, and then still be home.”
For Eckert, one of the most rewarding parts of the program is seeing students enjoy themselves while stepping outside their comfort zones.
“Seeing the kids enjoying it, just the smiles every day, that they’re excited to come in,” he said. “It’s fun to see the kids trying new things that they’re not used to doing.”
