Science and arts early release program for K-5 starts this fall

Western Washington University youth program favorites Odyssey of Science & Arts and Western Arts Preparatory Academy have teamed up to offer the Science & Arts Early Release Program for children in grades K-5 beginning fall 2012; each Wednesday session from October through May 2013 is from 1:45-5 p.m.

Designed for students in the Bellingham School District, Science & Arts Early Release is an extraordinary opportunity to explore the fun of science and art in a university setting.

Students will discover the "best kept secret" places on Western's campus and ignite their imagination and creativity with hands-on activities in specialized labs and classrooms. Each session begins with 45 minutes of physical activity before students settle down to learn about one of many exciting topics.

In order to ensure appropriate learning levels and an adult-to-child ratio of 1 to 10, students will be divided into two groups: grades K-2 and grades 3-5. Students can choose to participate in one or all of the program dates. Fall 2012 Themes:

• Machines and Moving Things: Physics – Oct. 10, 24; Nov. 14, 28
  • Experiment with electricity, magnetism, light and sound
  • Explore gravity and astronomy
• Fall Colors: Visual Arts – Oct, 17, 31; Nov. 1
  • Draw, paint and sculpt the afternoon away
  • Express creativity through art

Winter and spring themes will include zoology, earth science and visual arts. Early Release classes cost $39 per session or $33 each when enrolling in five or more per quarter.

A 20-minute parking permit for convenient drop-off and pick-up will be provided to participants at no additional cost. Students are asked to bring a rain jacket, a healthy snack and drink and a curious mind.

For more information or to register online, visit www.wwu.edu/youth, email youth@wwu.edu or call (360) 650-3308.