Late Day at CHCS

Volunteer Programs

Name of School: Chapel Hill Christian School
Location of School: Cuyahoga Falls, OH

Summary of Program:

Using parent volunteers, Chapel Hill Christian School (CHCS) has designed an after-school program called Late Day at CHCS to add a little spark to long, boring winter afternoons by providing enrichment activities for the students. We read in 1 Peter 4:10 that “each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” Parents have many talents and gifts that they can share with students. This program gives students an opportunity to explore new areas that typical classrooms do not teach. The six-week program is open to all students in first through sixth grades. The weekly classes begin when school dismisses, and they last for approximately 45 minutes.

In October, we survey the parents to see if they have any special talents or knowledge they can share with the students. We give examples such as proficiency in a foreign language, crafts, chess, model making, creative writing, computer technology/programming, and tutoring. Parents provide an outline of their class and explain any costs the students taking the class would incur. We require all parents who participate in the program to undergo a background check. We also fully train them in the discipline policies and procedures of the school. In addition, they receive any special instructions from the teachers regarding treatment of the classrooms.

In January, we give a list of the classes to students. They sign up for the classes of their choice. We require that at least three students sign up for a class so that there is no one-on-one teaching. The students purchase all the supplies except for the chess boards, which the school has purchased since they can be used from year to year.

Late Day at CHCS began in February of 2002. Over 150 students participated in the program. Their choices included a chess club, a sign language class, a scrapbook class, a class involving work on a school newspaper, a class offering tutoring for reading and math, and a Red Cross baby-sitting course. The parents met new children, and the new skills enriched the lives of students. Even older brothers and sisters became involved in the program. The parents and students enjoyed the chess club and newspaper so much that we extended these courses to the end of May.

Parents have been able to become involved in the school in new ways through Late Day at CHCS. The program provides another way for us to work toward fulfilling our mission: “Building a solid foundation for future generations through quality elementary Christian education.”

Late Day at CHCS 6.5