Winstead Program Keeps Kids Learning After School

Published December 17, 2009

When the school day ends, the learning continues at Winstead Elementary School where more than 300 students are involved in an after-school enrichment program called PAAW. The program is held each Wednesday from 3:30-4:30 p.m. and features more than two dozen clubs ranging from chess to archery to jewelry making.

"We try to make everything truly enriching," said Winstead parent Liz Cramer. "We've got some quality leaders who volunteer to be part of this amazing program."

There are clubs where students can play sports, practice cheerleading and even learn the Latin dance craze called zumba. Other clubs like drama, art and knitting allow students to express their creative side.

"I just think it's a good time to learn some new stuff and hang out with your friends," said Winstead fifth grader Claire Hamblen. "I learned how to make jewelry and I've learned how to draw."

The PAAW program is run by parent volunteers and teachers. Parents must register their children each semester. The PAAW program shuts down in December but will start back up on January 20 and run for eight consecutive weeks.