Nov. 21, 2016

By: Maricela Powers

With all the energy in one child, the elementary intramural program is a fun place for he or she. This program provides an area where kids in the elementary level compete and play in recreational physical activities with each other. These activities are only for this school district and do not involve other districts when competing. Also, the district does everything they can to provide all the activities that can meet a child’s interest. That being said, the Phoenix-Talent School District gives their elementary students a chance to be involved in an intramural program.

For three weeks the program works on one activity such as flag football, soccer, basketball, or volleyball. For 3rd to 5th graders, it starts after school, 2:20 pm, for two hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. For safety, the supervisors are required to separate the grades so that older kids play with each other and the younger kids play with each other. Therefore, kindergarten to 2nd graders play on Wednesdays at the same hours.  Parker DeVey, a fourth grader, explains this process as well by stating, “My favorite thing about it is working with my teammates!”. DeVey also enjoys the snacks provided and the option to choose their own teams.

The benefits to the elementary intramural program is that kids can stay fit and active. Also, kids can get introduced to healthier foods, since they will be needing a lot more nutrients for their bodies. Another benefit is that kids can critically think and work together with a team to figure out a problem, for example, needing to score. The final big advantage is that it will help children with their communication skills.

In another interview, Toby Walker who oversees the program, provided information on how the elementary intramurals in the district are going. Walker shares that, “ They have been going awesome!! There have been many positive reports from families and teachers,” which is a great start. Walker also shares the reason the district wanted a grant is because “So that we could offer an after school experience for K-5 students that was free to families.”. Overall, the intramurals are going great this year and many participants have been enjoying their time in this after school program.

Additionally, kids can join anytime, as long as each session does not have over 28 little athletes. A registration form can be found by going to the Talent, Phoenix, or Orchard Hill Elementary websites. Within the registration form, the parent/guardian of the child will fill out sheets that talk about emergency contacts and general health problems. Then, one will check which activities the child is interested in and sign an agreement that has to do with transportation on the activity bus when the child needs to go home. Finally, one will have to give their consent that their child can compete in the intramural program.