Sixth-graders Team up at Elkhorn Valley

BERGHOLZ -- More than 100 sixth-grade students in the Edison Local School District had the opportunity to form new friendships, learn new communication skills and were given valuable life lessons. And all while attending camp.

Those from Stanton and John Gregg Elementary schools visited the Elkhorn Valley Christian Service Camp in Bergholz May 22. The day consisted of various team-building activities and collaboration in an effort to get to know one another prior to beginning classes together at Edison Junior High School this fall.

Officials had the children rotate among four stations consisting of basketball, gagaball, Elkhorn kickball and pirate ship. Following the meet-and-greet and playing games with one another, lunch was provided.

When asked what their thoughts on camp were, many students stated they enjoyed meeting new people and doing activities outside of the classroom.

Stanton student Taylor Shasteen said, "I liked it. I liked the pirate ship. It was my favorite game."

"I liked the human foosball," stated Samaiah Firm from Stanton, adding she enjoyed meeting people and making new friends.

Brea Shrieve, a John Gregg student, said she liked getting the chance to meet the Stanton kids, while her classmate, Arianna Blake said camp day was a good time and the games were fun to play.

Assistant Superintendent Julie Kireta said "Next year, the sixth-graders will go to the junior high and they will be mixed from both elementary schools. We thought it would be a fun way for students to meet and work on communica`tion skills and the kids really enjoyed it."

"This was the first time such an event was held and it helped the kids build some camaraderie," she added. "In the summer, we went as part of summer school and had an option for the kids to go." She explained the idea was based on pandemic-related initiatives.

"We thought it would give the kids some social-emotional experiences that were fun because of two years of social distancing from COVID," Kireta concluded.

As interest grew among the children, school leaders reached out to the facility about further activities. Officials said those in grades first through sixth have participated in a summer program, with this year's event set for June 20-22. Kireta said information to register was sent home with pupils. These summer classes will be divided into two groups consisting of first through third grades and fourth through sixth grades.

Mark Laughlin, executive director of Elkhorn Valley, said students from Edison and surrounding schools have attended the retreat, with the latest gathering as another way to establish teamwork and friendships.

According to Laughlin, third-graders have attended the camp for approximately nine years. He noted it was important Stanton and John Gregg students unite since they will now be attending junior high together. He concluded by stating he hopes to see the sixth-grade visits become an annual affair.

Elkhorn Valley offers camps, retreats and other festivities for school students and church groups. Edison parents interested in registering their child for the summer program can contact the district office at (740) 282-0065.