Energy Express on Wheeling Island

Kids in primary school are in for a treat this summer! Energy Express is designed to instill a love of reading in kids who will enter 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grade this Fall.

This program provides 6 weeks of fun-packed learning. Mentors will work with kids one-on-one as they develop their reading skills. Energy Express is an opportunity for students to keep learning and growing outside the classroom.

A Typical Day

  • Monday through Friday
  • 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • June 21 – July 30, 2021
  • The House of the Carpenter can provide transportation

Each day, kids will come to the program and have breakfast together.

They’ll separate into their age groups, and mentors will read a book to their group. After discussing the story, they’ll participate in a writing activity. Each student will also have some time to practice reading by working one-on-one with a teenager or adult.

Next comes a themed craft, and some time to run around and play!

After lunch, it’ll be time to go home.

And the best part? Each student will take home at least one free book each week!

You can help make this program a success!

WVU Extension Services is actively recruiting college students for paid AmeriCorps positions. Find more information here!

We also need help from our community!

  • Volunteer your time!
    • Teens and adults can work one-on-one, helping students read
  • Send in supplies!
    • Here is a list of “found items” we need for crafts and activities
    • Your donation of gently used books will provide even more books for kids to take home
  • Monetary donations will help us run the program smoothly
    • This includes ensuring our facilities are COVID-compliant

Signing up for Energy Express

WVU Extension Services is collecting applications for the program now. There are a few ways to sign up:

  • Download the form from the Extension Services website
  • Contact Ohio County Extension Services for a paper copy
    • 304-234-3673

Our site has 30 spots available. Register as soon as you can to claim a spot for your child!

Studies have shown that children who don’t build literacy skills over the summer end up having to play catch-up in the Fall. You can make a huge difference for kids in our community!

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