Geneva kid-care program could be expanded

The KidsZone before- and after-school care program in Geneva schools is being deemed a success in the middle of its first year.

And there is a good chance it will be offered at all Geneva public elementary schools next school year.

About 180 students take part in the program, more than double what organizers expected, said Stacey Fedyski, the Geneva Park District recreation supervisor who oversees it.

"It's a sign," she said. "There definitely is a need for the program in the community." And a survey of participants' parents indicated 95 percent are pleased with the way it is run.

The program, for children in kindergarten through fifth grade, takes place at three elementary schools; students from the other two elementary schools are bused over.

The school district charges the park district $1.50 per day per student for the use of its facilities. School administrators recommend keeping that charge the same for the next school year, until more data is collected on the true cost to the district for utilities and other items. Transportation costs would be eliminated if the program is offered at all the schools.

The school board is scheduled to vote on that Monday.

"We want it at every school. We don't want the kids transported," said Fedyski.

Tuition ranges from $88 a month for one child attending the morning program three days a week, to $350 for a child attending both morning and afternoon five days a week. A second child from the same family receives a 20 percent discount. Registration for next year's program starts March 3 through the park district.

Activities include crafts, games, play, homework time, presentations by the Geneva Public Library and snacks.

"The hardest part is the sharing of the facility," said Dawn George, assistant superintendent for student services, referring to finding room amid other after-school activities such as club and Scout meetings.