WILMINGTON — In addition to a curriculum rich in core subjects and class specials, students attending Wilmington elementary schools also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of mini clubs.
While educators know the priority of each school day is academic instruction and learning, they also know the importance of providing students the opportunity to participate in mini clubs and after-school programs allows students to engage in new activities, explore interests, and make meaningful contributions.
Participating in clubs is also a way for students to meet new people and make new friends with schoolmates who share similar interests.
By joining clubs students learn real world skills such as building respect and working as a team — two important life skills that will serve them for years to come.
Participating in clubs can also help build confidence, relieve stress, and empower students to have more self-esteem and a greater sense of purpose.
Wilmington’s Denver Place, East End, and Holmes Elementary schools each offer a variety of clubs.
The mini clubs at Denver Place change throughout the year and have included, in part, Big Brothers Big Sisters; the Board Games Club; Build a Bike Club; Cursive Club; Fitness, Walking, Riding Club; and the Peer Autism Team.
Favorite clubs at East End include the Kindness Ninjas lunch group, Student Council, Homework Club, and Art Clubs.
Mini clubs in place at Holmes Elementary include, in part, the art club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Chess Club, Computer Club, Friendship Club, Peer Autism Team, Singing Club, Student Council, and Wilmington College Football Friends.
Wilmington elementary schools also open their doors and campuses to community groups and youth sports teams offering opportunities for students. Community baseball, basketball, and soccer are popular athletic programs among students, as are the Girl Scouts, Flag Corps, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Good News Club.
It’s a lesson educators learned many years ago that is still relevant today — that as children continue to grow academically, so too do their interests. By providing students options to explore and expand their experiences beyond the classroom, Wilmington Elementary Schools foster opportunities that nurture a rich and well-rounded education.
Information for this article was provided by Diana Miller, who coordinates communications for several area schools.
