High Schoolers Take the Lead in New Youth Program at Western Sullivan Libraries

The Western Sullivan Public Libraries are expanding their role as a community learning hub this spring — with new programs that put teens in leadership roles and bring kids together around math, literacy, and even gardening.Children’s Coordinator Callison Stratton says one of the most exciting additions is a peer-led academic enrichment program designed by local high school students.“Back in the fall we opened up proposals for a teen mini-grant,” Stratton said. “So our winning proposal was the Equation and Expression program.”The proposal came from Sullivan West High School sophomore Christopher Lee and junior Mary Chellis. Their idea: create a collaborative learning space where younger students explore math and literacy through games, led by teens who have recently navigated those same academic challenges.“We thought it would be a really wonderful program to offer a peer-led, teen-led learning games environment,” Stratton said, “where they’ll be learning about math and literacy through this sort of collaborative, fun environment.”The program will meet Wednesdays at the Jeffersonville library in five-week sessions, divided by grade level. Sessions for grades two and three begin February 25, followed by grades four and five on April 8. A middle-school preparation course for sixth graders starts May 20.While families are asked to commit to all five sessions, Stratton says the focus isn’t on grades or test scores.“Really it’s not about getting grades or anything like that,” she said. “It’s about community skill building, social emotional learning, developing those skills that are going to help them just go a little bit further in their academic career.”Stratton says seeing teens step into leadership roles was what made the proposal stand out.“It will be something that’s led by students who’ve been through it already,” she said. “When we saw their proposal, we were just so proud of it. We said, we have to help facilitate this.”The library is also preparing to take learning outdoors with its Junior Master Gardeners program, which meets at the Narrowsburg branch and uses a plot at the Tusten Community Heritage Garden.“We’re very excited for our garden club,” Stratton said.The next session begins March 7 and is open to children ages six and up. Returning participants are welcome, and the program is open to families across the community.“It’s a very community-based, all-ages program,” Stratton said.The library is also seeking volunteers, particularly local gardeners interested in sharing their skills.“People who love getting their hands dirty and love working with kids are welcome to come volunteer,” she said.