Reaching Out to Youth

 

Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus and the Ozark Area Youth Organization (OAYO) joined forces in hosting the first Kids Campus, July 12–16 on the Ozark Campus.

Kids Campus is a program that combines fun and learning for children entering kindergarten, third and fourth grades. Topics included art, computer safety, literacy, music, robotics, safety and much more. Nearly 40 children participated in this first year.

The camp program was “developed as a collaborative effort of the Ozark Area Youth Organization, a United Way partner, and Arkansas Tech – Ozark, designed to support literacy, education, and more importantly, our area youth,” said Laura Rudolph, Director of Public and External Relations.

The program received generous support from Walmart of Ozark and volunteers from the Ozark Public Schools, Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, Ozark Fire Department, and the Red Hat Society.

One parent, Lisa Durning of Ozark stated, “What a wonderful experience for my daughter, Elizabeth, she enjoyed the arts and crafts, but was impressed by the different program offerings on the Ozark campus, and the robotics demonstration.” Durning added, “I will definitely enroll my daughter next year!”

Each camper received a t-shirt, and will have a backpack waiting for them in their classroom during Ozark schools open house. The kindergarten students’ backpack will be completely furnished with the appropriate supplies as prescribed by the school.

Dr. Jo Alice Blondin, Chancellor said, “Kids Campus represents our commitment to engaging the youngest members of our community in learning.”

 

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