Shafter Learning Center offering varied activities

The Shafter Library and Learning Center had a busy summer program, including their Summer Reading Challenge and a variety of activities keeping children busy.

Now that school is in session, the center is not slowing down, still offering programs for all ages. For the little ones, they are offering a KinderPrep program that is aimed to prepare Shafter's pre-K kids for their educational careers. KinderPrep helps prepare 4.5-6-year-old old for their first in-person school year. Pre-K helps younger 3-4 year olds gain one-on-one educational experiences alongside their parent or guardian to encourage and promote early learning and development at home.

Preschool-aged children can be signed up for either the PreK or KinderPrep class, depending on the child's age. There are two different groups being offered, both running on Mondays and Wednesdays. The first group is from 10 to 11:30 a.m., the second from 12 to 1:30 p.m..

The center is also offering a Debate Club to give students in 3rd to 8th grade the opportunity to expand their logical thinking and argumentative skills that are handy in day-to-day life but also supports school success, such as in writing. The Debate Club meets at two different times during the week; Third and fourth graders on Fridays from 4:05 to 5 p.m., and fifth through eighth graders Fridays from 5:05 to 6 p.m.

For students who have a passion for performing, the Learning Center is offering a Theater Workshop class starting Thursday, Sept. 12, to Thursday, Oct. 10. The class meets on Thursdays from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The class will help students who want to further their performing skills, perhaps preparing them for Drama Club once they enter junior high and high school. The class is for students in the fourth to sixth grade.

"I love that they are offering a class in theater. My daughter just loves singing, acting, and dancing, and this will be perfect for her. She is going to love it," said Loretta Munoz, who has enjoyed watching her daughter perform since she was 4 years old.

The center can be reached at 661-746-5055, or visit them at 236 James St.