By Amy Filippone, Dept. of Parks & Recreation
In October, the Moorestown Department of Parks and Recreation is offering Remote Learning and Robotics Pods. These all-day sessions are limited to 10 students and provide a structured environment for studying, learning and social engagement. They are offered by day of the week: Mondays starting Oct. 5 (four weeks); Tuesdays starting Oct. 6 (four weeks); Wednesdays starting Oct. 7 (four weeks) and Thursdays starting Oct. 1 (five weeks) from 7:45a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Children in first through sixth grades just need to be dropped off at the Church Street Recreation Center with everything required for the day — books, devices, snacks, lunch, water and of course, a mask. Pods will be grouped by age and maintained throughout the month. The day will be filled with students’ individual school assignments, socializing within their pod group and the wonderful world of robotics. All classes will adhere to New Jersey State COVID-19 Safety Standard Guidelines. There will be daily health checks including temperature monitoring.
STEAM Works Studio will provide the robotics component of the pods. Children will learn to create games Scratch, a platform developed by MIT. This easy and fun visual drag and drop way to program is an entry to the world of technology. Science, technology, engineering and math are rapidly becoming an essential part of many future careers.
There are two art classes in October for boys and girls in grades three through six. Pottery bead making is a six-week class starting Tuesday, Oct. 13 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Students will learn to make clay beads and pendants that are kiln fired. Necklaces, bracelets and earring will made and displayed on a custom made clay jewelry holder. This could be a great way to make gifts for the upcoming holiday season.
Paper-making is a two-day workshop on Thursday, Oct. 8 and Friday, Oct. 9 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Kids will experiment with adding materials like denim, flowers, seeds and color. After the paper is made from pulp it will be transformed into beautiful cards, stationary, bookmarks or plantable seed ornaments.
Tracie Muir will be teaching both art classes. She studied art at the University of Maryland where she earned a bachelor of arts in scientific illustration and a masters of science in medical illustration. Muir’s professional career spans 25 years where she was a medical illustrator for universities and a graphic artist for NFL films. Besides her traditional art background, Muir has expanded her creative drive into glass blowing, painting, pottery and paper making.
To register and for full details on all programs, please visit www.moorestownrec.com.
