Quick look: The Westminster School District has launched a free after-school Scouts pilot for grades 1\u20135 at Finley and Schmitt elementary schools, offering weekly, on-campus enrichment focused on leadership, teamwork and hands-on learning, with plans to expand.<\/p>\n
With hands-on activities and strong early interest from families, Westminster School District has launched a free after-school Scouts pilot<\/a> in partnership with Scouting America Orange County Council<\/a>.<\/p>\n The program began with kickoff events earlier this year at Finley and Schmitt elementary schools, where hundreds of students participated. More than 80 students enrolled on the first day, according to the district.<\/p>\n Open to students in grades first through fifth, the program meets once a week after school and is offered on campus at no cost to families. Activities are designed to build leadership, teamwork and problem-solving skills through games and hands-on learning.<\/p>\n \u201cScouts bring opportunities to our schools that many kids wouldn\u2019t otherwise have,\u201d said Jonathan Edelman, director of expanded learning for the district. \u201cIts well-rounded program and core values help today\u2019s youth face everyday challenges and grow into strong, confident leaders.\u201d<\/p>\n Parents cited the program\u2019s focus on confidence and belonging, along with its convenient after-school format, as reasons for enrolling their children.<\/p>\n Following the initial pilot, the district plans to expand the program to additional elementary campuses and to Johnson Middle School in the next school year, with further expansion planned in future phases.<\/p>\n