Because of the contributions of some very generous donors, more than 70 local children will attend College for Kids classes this summer at Merced College.
The annual summer enrichment program raised more than $14,000 from community supporters to provide scholarships for area youths who otherwise might not have been able to attend the popular Community Services classes.
"The local community really chipped in to help these children with their enrollment costs," said Robin Shepard, executive director of the Merced College Foundation. "This was our most successful fundraising effort to support College for Kids scholarships."
Individual donations, many from college employees, were instrumental in launching the fundraising campaign, Shepard said. But, it was a $5,000 contribution by the Community Foundation of Merced County that ensured the success of the campaign. Then, the Educational Employees Credit Union provided a much-needed corporate match.
"We raised $7,160 and EECU matched that amount," Shepard said. "Without the support of our donors, but especially the Community Foundation and the EECU, far fewer children would have been able to attend College for Kids this summer. I'd like to thank everyone who donated to this worthy program."
Session II of College for Kids begins July 11.
Aside from aquatics classes and sports campus, children can register for a number of education-related classes, including Beginning Sign Language for Kids, Creative Painting, Digital Photography with Jay Sousa, Marvelous Math, and Magnificent Science.
The program's Youth Theater and Children's Choir programs are also open for enrollment.
"We're seeking local children who want to explore their talent by acting and singing," said Karyn Dower, dean of Community Services and College for Kids supervisor. "Both programs allow young performers to learn about the dynamic world of theater and music. It's a great opportunity."
The Youth Theater program will be rehearsing "Twain's Tales," a selection of dramatic stories by master American storyteller Mark Twain.
Performances are scheduled for Aug. 3-4. Young singers can join the Children's Choir, which is geared toward youths ages 7 to 14. A public performance is also scheduled.
Preschool children, 3 to 5 years old, can enjoy the special one-week Discovery preschool program.
Children can join Crazy Science-Goops, Doughs, Bubbles and More! July 11-14; Wheels, Wings, and Flying Machines, July 18-21; Make Some Noise, July 25-28; and Beach Party-Treasures, Water Play and Summer Celebration! Aug. 1-4. Space is limited, and children must be potty-trained to enroll.
College for Kids registration can be done online at www.mccd.edu/community or in person in the Merced College Theater lobby. Most College for Kids classes are $60.
Enrollment fees vary for individual sports and aquatics classes.
The Summer Youth Theater program is $250 per child and the Children's Choir program is $110 per child.
For more information, call the Community Services office at (209) 384-6224.
Goodbye, Jeff!
Merced College Board of Trustees president Les McCabe had a few choice words to say about his colleague Jeff Tassey recently. Tassey, who's retiring at the end of this semester after 33 years with the district, was honored along with his wife, Carolyn, who is also retiring this year after a long career in education.
A voice in the crowd bellowed "Hey, Les, is it true you taught Jeff everything he knows?"
McCabe took a pause Jack Benny would have been proud of.
"It's true" McCabe said. "I did teach Jeff everything he knows ... but he doesn't know everything I know."
We're going to miss you, Jeff!
Compiled by the Merced College Public Information Office.
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