For the past three years, Open Doors Academy’s programs at Mansfield Middle School and Malabar Intermediate School have been steadily growing, providing a resource for families where scholars can explore new interests, receive academic support, and build meaningful relationships.
At Malabar Intermediate School, each day begins with a snack and homework help focused on math and reading. Scholars then engage in activities like archery, self-defense lessons with the local fire department, and culinary classes. Recently, they made jam from fresh berries and started fermenting sauerkraut. They’ve enjoyed swimming, basketball, and woodworking. Next month, fifth and sixth graders will start training to become certified drone pilots.
Kayden Bonine, an 11-year-old fifth grader, shared, “I never would have tried archery without ODA, but now it’s one of my favorite things.” While in ODA, Kayden met Jarod Elder, now his best friend, who inspired him to start a drawing club. Encouraged by his ODA mentor, Mr. Briggs, Kayden confidently invited all 94 participants to join their club.
At Mansfield Middle School, scholars gain technical skills through health tech education and career-readiness opportunities like cosmetology classes. Miatta Curry, an ODA Facilitator at Mansfield Middle School and parent to a scholar at Malabar Intermediate School, said she saw the program as “critical for keeping kids engaged and active in positive learning while parents are still at work.”
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This article is a part of the December 2024 PINC Newsletter. To read more articles from this newsletter, click here or the button below.
