Communications students with Instructor Faith Smith and Program Assistants Melissa and Jaelyn
IU Northwest Kids College offered opportunities to 6-8th graders
Contributed By: Faith Smith
Taking strides to further educate middle school students in Gary
“We’re not gonna waste our shot! No, we’re not gonna waste our shot!”
These are the words middle schoolers, in instructor Naja Gbala’s Performing Arts section, chanted at the Indiana University Northwest Kids’ College commencement ceremony this past Friday, June 21st.
Seeking every opportunity given to them, in school 6th-8th graders as well as students who are homeschooled chose to participate in a two-week summer program that fulfilled their career interests or passions.
With help from directors Sarah Gawal, Ken Barry, and Tatyana Otero, the program proved to be a success academically and physically. Classes were separated into ‘majors’ and ‘minors’ to give middle schoolers the feel of a college experience.
Major courses included Medicine, Technology, Communications, Performing Arts and Visual Arts. Every day, a strong team of instructors, program assistants, showrunners and more were committed to meeting the needs of the students.
Outside of the classroom was just as important as inside. A field trip to West Beach turned into a lesson on sand and water quality, and how to decrease water pollution in Gary.
Free time, referred to as SURGE, gave students time and space to release their energy with games, have some Kona Ice and engage with their peers.
On commencement day, each major class did a five minute presentation to show parents what they learned during the two weeks. A valedictorian and salutatorian were chosen for the summer session, and in the end all the directors and staff received their flowers.
“We are the K-I-D-S college team! We are the greats, so it’s meant to be!”
Story Posted:06/24/2024
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