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Now Enrolling: Elementary Summer Programs

Make sure that your kids are not only busy this summer,
but that they’re busy learning!


Prevent summer learning loss with the Learning Resource Center’s summer programs for all ages over the next two months, including a couple geared towards elementary students.
 
In addition to hosting Camp READY!, a school-readiness program for students entering into kindergarten in the fall, LRC will also hold two elementary camps, Super Summer Success and PEP Summer Camps 2016.
Image: FreePik
 
Students who have just completed any grade between kindergarten-5th this school year are invited to attend Super Summer Success at South McKeel Academy. This summer enrichment course will offer students a fun way to gain important skills in reading and math and a great way to reinforce their skills through interaction and review. The classes will be small and will include hands-on, high-interest activities as well as interactive teaching by certified instructors. Super Summer Success will take place June 20 – July 14, Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. (excluding Monday, July 4) at South McKeel Academy, which is located at 2222 Edgewood Drive, South, Lakeland, FL 33803. The cost is $395 for the entire four-week course. Scholarships are available for families with a documented financial need. To enroll your child, please visit lrcpolk.com/programs/super-summer-success or call LRC at 863-688-9477.
 
Students who have completed any grade between kindergarten-4th and will enter 1st-5th grade in the fall, may consider PEP Summer Camps 2016. These camps will offer students math and reading practice in an exciting way that will accompany week-long themes of science, sports and art & music at one of two Winter Haven locations, the PEP Education Center or Inwood Elementary. This program will also include high-interest, hands-on lessons, skill reinforcement and interactive teaching by certified instructors. PEP Summer Camps will take place Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. over the following weeks: June 13-16, June 20-23 and June 27-30 at the PEP Center located at 203 Avenue R NE, Winter Haven, FL, 33881 or Inwood Elementary located at 2200 Avenue G NW, Winter Haven, FL 33880. The cost is $25 per week. Scholarships are also available to families with a documented financial need. To register, please visit lrcpolk.com/programs/pep-summer-camps or call LRC at 863-688-9477.
 
Don’t hesitate to enroll your elementary student in one of these beneficial enrichment programs! Students will be able to learn and grow while still having fun this summer when they attend one of these great programs.
 

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Now Enrolling: Camp READY! Summer 2016

Camp READY! dates are set for Summer 2016.
 
If you have a rising or repeating kindergartner, make sure they’re prepared for academic success by enrolling them in the Learning Resource Center’s annual kindergarten-readiness program. On average, Camp READY! students have shown growth of seven months from pre- to post-assessment in just four weeks.
 
Learning Resource Center summer Camp READY!
Through hands-on, experiential learning centers lead by qualified teachers, students will experience learning that is fun!
 
With art, music and movement, cooking, and reading-readiness centers, Camp READY! builds pre-reading skills while also providing a safety net to allow children more time to continue motor, social and cognitive development. Teachers will engage students in themed rich language-laden lessons, while also providing learning opportunities for parent involvement at camp and at home.
 
The program is designed for students entering or repeating kindergarten in August 2016.
 
This year, Camp READY! is scheduled to take place at ten campsites throughout Polk County. Each camp will last a total of four weeks, Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. (with the exception of Poinciana & Ft. Meade) Dates vary by camp. (See below)
 
The cost of camp is $25 for the month and includes a shirt. If this fee causes a financial hardship, please call LRC at 863-688-9477 to discuss scholarship options.
 
To register your child before spots are filled, please visit lrcpolk.com/programs/camp-ready or call LRC at 863-688-9477.
 
 

Camp Locations and dates:


 

 
 

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Winter Haven’s Newest School is Accepting Enrollment Applications

Winter Haven’s newest public school opens enrollment for 2016 as construction of their facility begins downtown.
Cypress Junction Montessori logo
 
Montessori classrooms are filled with diverse groups of engaged students working and learning according to their individual interests and abilities. Soon, you’ll be able to see these multi-age classrooms in action in downtown Winter Haven. Cypress Junction Montessori, a new public charter school, will open in August for the 2016-2017 school year with students ages three through sixth grade. The school will add seventh grade in 2017 and eighth grade in 2018.
 
The open enrollment period for Cypress Junction Montessori began on February 19 and will remain open through March 18. The application is simple, takes less than 10 minutes and can be found at CypressJunction.org/Apply.
 
The charter school’s enrollment will be determined through a random lottery process, just like those used at many other area magnet and charter schools. Families will be notified of the lottery results during the first week of April.
 
Open enrollment is also taking place for students who will enter kindergarten in 2017 or 2018. This would be children born between 9/2/2011 and 9/1/2013. The deadline for these application is also March 18, with notification letters going out the first week of April. Students selected in the random lottery for these future Kindergarten classes will be offered a spot in the three- and four-year-old preschool program that is part of the primary classroom, but they are not required to attend the preschool program to reserve their seat in their kindergarten class.
 
The early lotteries are being conducted because the Montessori Method starts at three years old within the primary classroom made up of three- to-six-year old students. Learning that takes place during these years comes spontaneously without effort, leading children to enter the elementary classes with a clear, concrete sense of many abstract concepts. The early years in the Montessori experience often nurtures a joy of learning that prepares children for further challenges. While students can be successful entering the program at any age, research shows this process works best when children enter a Montessori program at age three or four as part of a mixed-age classroom, so CJM is proud to offer the opportunity to begin in the Montessori environment as early as age three.
 
At any age, Montessori helps children to become self-motivated, self-disciplined and to retain the sense of curiosity that so many children lose along the way in traditional classrooms. Montessori students are able to work at their own pace and ability, and they tend to act with care and respect toward their environment and each other.
 
As students continue on toward middle school, work becomes increasingly more independent, student-driven and project-based. The Montessori middle school program focuses on helping students actively engage in and question the world around them. Guided by questions,“How do we know?,” “Why does this happen?” and, ultimately, “Why is this significant?,” the students investigate and critically examine concepts and ideas through on-going interactive experiences and discussions in which the emphasis is placed on quality and depth of thought, mastery, imagination, passion and adaptability. By providing students with educational experiences that foster intellectual, emotional, aesthetic, physical and social growth, the Montessori middle school program seeks to instill resourcefulness, a sense of social responsibility and a lifelong love of the acquisition of knowledge and its responsible application in this world. In this environment, it is safe to risk opinions and consider vast, unfamiliar points of view. Montessori students who transition to traditional high schools typically become leaders among their peers and perform well both academically and socially.
 
Cypress Junction Montessori will be located in downtown Winter Haven at 201 Ave. B SW as the sole occupant of a newly renovated and expanded campus. The current building will be renovated and expanded to approximately 13,000 square feet of classroom, administration and other educational spaces.
 
The new location partially inspired the name for the charter school: Cypress Junction Montessori. Efforts to find a name that tied into the history and culture of Winter Haven led to the cypress tree, an ancient and steady tree that has long been an icon in our community. The downtown location, on a piece of land where the original railroad ran through Winter Haven, inspired “Junction.” Cypress Junction Montessori looks forward to bringing students and staff from all areas of our community together and fostering a love of learning using the Montessori Method right in the heart of Winter Haven.
 
Families can find out more about Cypress Junction Montessori at CypressJunction.org or by following the school’s Facebook page which is updated regularly. Any questions can be directed to info@cypressjunction.org.
 

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Celebrate the Season with a Full Month of Holiday Events

Are you looking for 2015 holiday events in Polk County this December? We’ve compiled a list of fun, holiday events throughout the county that the entire family can enjoy. Have your calendar ready to mark the events your interested in, and scroll through the list of events categorized by ongoing, library, city and county, college, local theater, and attraction events below.
 

If you’re looking for 2016 events, please click here.


Happy Holidays!
 

Ongoing Events:

Festival of Wreaths
Date: Friday, November 20-Saturday, December 12
Location: Polk County History Center, Bartow
Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Details: Decorated wreaths will be displayed in the History Center from Nov. 20 through Dec. 12 at this fifth annual event. This event promises to be fun and festive for both decorators and bidders alike. Wreaths with exceptional decorating themes will be recognized with the Santa’s Choice designation during the display period. For more information, contact the History Center at 863-534-4386.
 
Winter Walking Tours
Date: Friday, November 27-Sunday, January 3
Location: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
Time: 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 2:00 p.m. Sunday
Details: Volunteers lead visitors on an hour-long winter walking tour, sharing information about the flora and fauna and guiding visitors through the Gardens from the Visitor Center to the Singing Tower. Included with general Gardens admission.
 
Elves Shelves Gift Shop
Date: Saturday, November 28-Sunday, December 6
Location: Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland
Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 1:00 p.m.-5:00 pm Sunday
Details: This special secret shop is for children only! Gifts will be reasonably priced for children to purchase holiday items for family and friends. Elves Shelves fun includes a wrapping station. Admission is free. Prices vary per item.
 
1930’s HoliDAYS
Date: The following Tuesdays: December 1, December 8, December 15, December 22
Location: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Details: Be sure to see the vintage Model A’s outside Pinewood Estate, meet historical characters from the 1930s, and catch a few surprise personalities from the past. Tuesdays throughout December. Included with general Gardens admission.
 
BeFly Bike Tours – Christmas Lights Tours
Date: Fridays & Saturdays: December 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19
Location: Beginning at Concord Coffee, Lakeland
Time: 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.
Details: Light lovers can enjoy a magical experience with opportunities to “ooh” & “ahh” over gorgeous holiday displays, much good cheer, and creatively-decorated bikes (and cyclists). Tours cost $30 per person and are limited to 7 adults per group. Bring-your-own-bike is open to all. Reservations required.
 
Lights of Lakeland
Date: December 4-6; December 11-13
Location: Highland Park Church, Lakeland
Time: 6:30 p.m.- 9 p.m.
Details: Lights of Lakeland 2015 is the TENTH ANNUAL, free walk-thru Christmas experience that the whole family can enjoy! Experience an evening of excitement and wonder filled with your favorite holiday sights, smells and sounds. With over 500,000 lights on display, your family will be able to enjoy: The Grinch, Santa’s Workshop, a reindeer barn, pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus, food trucks, the Sweet Shoppe, a Bethlehem experience with live animals, the General Store for children to Christmas shop on their own and photos with cartoon characters.
 
Christmas Bricktacular
Date: Saturdays and Sundays: December 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27;
Monday, December 28-Wednesday, December 30
Location: LEGOLAND Florida, Winter Haven
Time: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (December 20; 26-30)
Details: Bring in the holiday season with a 30-foot tall LEGO Christmas tree made of 270,000 LEGO bricks, life-size LEGO Santa, reindeer and sleigh, festive decorations, LEGO build activity, a LEGO Santa Scavenger Hunt, holiday entertainment and nightly fireworks. LEGO Santa and LEGO Toy Soldier make daily appearances in the Park providing a perfect family photo opportunity.
 
Florida Flywheelers Christmas in the Village
Date: Friday & Saturday: December 11-12; December 18-19
Location: 7000 Avon Park Cutoff Road Fort Meade, FL 33841
Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Details: The best kept Christmas secret around…the Florida Flywheelers bring a holiday village of sparkling lights, refreshments, & Santa & Mrs. Claus to their tractor site located between Avon Park and Fort Meade. Families can journey through the village on a tram pulled by a tractor while enjoying fun Christmas displays. There are also stops for free hotdogs, cookies, hot chocolate, eggnog and cider along the way. Admission is a monetary or toy donation.
 
Holiday Workshops
Date: Saturday, December 12; Saturday, Dec. 19; Monday-Wednesday, Dec. 21-23
Location: Explorations V Children’s Museum, Lakeland
Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
Details: Decorations and holiday fun for kids of all ages. On December 21-23, children can choose to attend Santa’s Workshop at 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and/or Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen at 1 p.m.-3p.m.
 
Season’s Screenings
Date: Saturday, December 12; Saturday December 19; Tuesday, December 22
Location: Lake Eva Park, Haines City
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Details: Bring your chairs and blankets for Haines City’s Christmas-themed movie series in the park. Popcorn and drinks will be available for purchase.
December 12- A Christmas Carol; December 19- Elf; December 22- The Polar Express
 
Winter Ice Skating
Date: Sunday, December 20-Sunday, January 3
Location: The Lakeland Center (George Jenkins Arena)
Time: Times vary by date.
Details: Public ice skating returns to The Lakeland Center this winter with morning, afternoon, evening, and late evening sessions on various days. Click the title link to see times and dates.
 

Library Events:

Milk And Cookies With Santa
Date: Saturday, December 5
Location: Bartow Public Library (Pamplin Art Gallery on second floor)
Time: Times vary by date.
Details: Stop by the Bartow Public Library on Saturday, December 5 to meet with Santa Claus and share some milk and cookies to celebrate the holidays.
 
Polar Express Pajama Party
Date: Tuesday, December 8
Location: Lake Wales Public Library
Time: 4 p.m.
Details: Wear your pajamas, and come join us for the movie, crafts, and hot chocolate.
 
Holiday Fun
Date: Saturday, December 19
Location: Lakeland Public Library & Larry Jackson Branch, Lakeland
Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. (Main Library); 1 p.m.-4 p.m. (Larry Jackson)
Details: Family fun with a special story-time and crafts.
 
Elf Party
Date: Tuesday, December 22
Location: Mulberry Public Library
Time: 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
Details: Join the library for the Elf movie and Elf-themed snacks and fun.
 
Christmas Movie Extravaganza
Date: Tuesday, December 22; Wednesday, December 23; Saturday, December 26
Location: Winter Haven Public Library
Time: 2 p.m.
Details: Watch Christmas movies at the library during the week of Christmas. The lineup of movies includes Arthur Christmas (Tuesday), Polar Express (Wednesday) and Home Alone (Saturday).
 

City & County Events:

Holiday Tree Lighting Party
Date: Thursday, December 3
Location: Downtown Auburndale
Time: 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Details: Join the City of Auburndale in kicking off the holiday season with refreshments, entertainment, tree lighting, Christmas lights and more.
 
First Friday – Holiday Hometown
Date: Friday, December 4
Location: Downtown Lakeland
Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Details: Free holiday-themed family-friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art reception, car show, and more.
 
Holiday Tree Lighting Party
Date: Friday, December 4
Location: Eloise Resource Center (710 Snively Avenue, Eloise)
Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Details: This free Polk County Parks and Recreation holiday family event will feature sweet treats, arts and crafts, coloring contest, and a family movie.
 
Jingle Bell Rock Party
Date: Friday, December 4
Location: Wabash Community Center (1230 Southern Ave., Lakeland)
Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Details: This free Polk County Parks and Recreation community holiday event is for the whole family. This event will feature sweet treats, a hot chocolate bar, games, arts and crafts, and a family movie.
 
Breakfast with Santa – Auburndale
Date: Saturday, December 5
Location: Auburndale Civic Center
Time: 7 a.m.-11 a.m.
Details: Auburndale Parks and Recreation presents the annual breakfast with Santa event. Admission is $8.
 
Breakfast with Santa – Bartow
Date: Saturday, December 5
Location: Carleton Hall of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Bartow (500 West Stuart St.)
Time: 7 a.m.-11 a.m.
Details: The annual Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus will be presented by the Zonta Club of Bartow and the Women’s Care Center. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to greet children. Free craft activities for children included with the pancake breakfast. Tickets are $7 and will be available at the door.
 
Glitter, Glisten & Snow
Date: Saturday, December 5
Location: Lake Eva Park, Haines City
Time: 6 p.m.
Details: This fun-filled event appeals to all ages and features lights, activities, Santa, reindeer, snow slides, and entertainment including Sisaundra Lewis from season six of NBC’s The Voice.
 
Carols in the Park
Date: Saturday, December 5; Saturday, December 6
Location: Central Park, Winter Haven
Time: 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday
Details: Find free photos with Santa (2-4 p.m.). a candy cane corner, kids crafts, train rides, games, holiday music, Elves Cafe, handmade items, and more at this 27 year Winter Haven holiday tradition.
 
Holiday Party
Date: Friday, December 11
Location: Wilfred Smith Resource Center (135 Avenue Y N.E., Winter Haven)
Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Details: This free Polk County Parks and Recreation holiday event for the whole family. Families will enjoy sweet treats, arts and crafts, coloring contest, and a family movie.
 
Breakfast with Santa – Haines City
Date: Saturday, December 12
Location: Egg City, Haines City (35510 US Hwy 27)
Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Details: Join Haines City Parks and Recreation at Egg City where Santa and Mrs. Claus will great the children and pose for pictures. Admission is included with the purchase of a meal. Bring your cameras.
 
Breakfast with Santa at the Y
Date: Saturday, December 12
Location: Fontaine Gills Family YMCA, Lakeland (2125 Sleepy Hill Road)
Time: 9 a.m.
Details: Join the YMCA of West Central Florida for the annual FREE holiday event at the Fontaine Gills Family YMCA featuring professional pictures with Santa, bounce houses for toddlers and school-age children, cookie decorating, crafts and more.
 
Christmas Notes
Date: Saturday, December 12
Location: Homeland Heritage Park (249 Church Avenue, Homeland)
Time: 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Details: Join Polk County Parks and Recreation for live music, photos with Santa, refreshments, a holiday kid zone, outdoor movie, and more. Admission is free.
 
Winterfest
Date: Saturday, December 12
Location: Downtown Davenport (Lake Play & Bay Street)
Time: 4 p.m.-8 p.m.
Details: Winterfest festivities will include a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, electric night time parade, cookie decorating, lighting of Lake Play Park, and a cruise-in with classic cars, vendors and SNOW.
Classic Car Cruise In – 4-8 p.m.
Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus – 4:30 p.m.
Lighting of Lake Play Park – 6 p.m.
Nighttime Electric Parade – 7 p.m.
 
Holiday Extravaganza
Date: Thursday, December 17
Location: Winter Haven Recreational & Cultural Center
Time: 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
Details: Join us for a fun-filled night that the entire family can enjoy. The event which is open to all ages will feature holiday crafts, gingerbread house making contest, musical chairs and more! Refreshments will be served.
 
Snow Central
Date: Thursday, December 17
Location: Central Park, Winter Haven
Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Details: Bring the family downtown to frolic in Winter Haven’s very own winter wonderland. There will be 70 tons of snow making up the snow slide and snow pile for children and adults to enjoy. After the kids are done visiting Santa and Mrs. Claus, they can take a train ride, jump in the bounce house, and enjoy all the other activities that will be available.
 
Dixieland Christmas
Date: Saturday, December 19
Location: Dixieland, Lakeland
Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Details: Don’t miss the opportunity for free photos with Santa at Access Church (6-8), live music and holiday drinks at Concord Coffee (6-9), adult coloring at Art Centric Studio (7-9), a special Christmas raffle at A Kind Place (6-8:30), and special deals and desserts at Fat Maggie’s, all located in Dixieland (6-8:30).
 

College Events:

Symphony Guild: ISO Christmas Concert
Date: Thursday, December 3
Location: Polk State Winter Haven Fine Arts Theatre
Time: 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m.
Details: Contact Polk State College for details on this event.
 
SEU Christmas Concert
Date: Friday, December 4; Saturday, December 5
Location: Southeastern University, Bush Chapel
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Details: To celebrate the birth of the Savior, the ensembles and faculty from the Department of Music come together for two evenings of worship on a grand scale. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students. You may purchase tickets at the door or online.
 
Over 55 Show Band Concert: “It’s Christmas! – And All That Jazz!”
Date: Sunday, December 6
Location: Polk State Winter Haven Fine Arts Theatre
Time: 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
Details: The Over 55 Show Band will perform at the Winter Haven Fine Arts Theatre. The cost for the concert is $10.
 
Home for the Holidays: The Christmas Gala
Date: Saturday, December 12
Location: Florida Southern College’s Branscomb Auditorium
Time: 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Details: The FSC Music Department’s Christmas Gala has become an essential holiday music tradition for the college and greater community. This year’s edition, Home for the Holidays, offers a wonder-filled array of musical favorites performed by music department students and faculty, joined by special invited guests from FSC’s musical theatre program and the Florida Dance Theatre.
 
Polk State College Winter Christmas Gala
Date: Saturday, December 12 & Sunday, December 13
Location: Polk State Winter Haven Fine Arts Theatre
Time: 7 p.m. (Saturday); 2:30 p.m. (Sunday)
Details: Polk State Music will present its annual holiday concerts, and just as audiences have come to expect, the repertoire will feature a mix of traditional favorites and a few surprises, too. Admission for the general public is $7.
 
Florida Dance Theatre Presents: TCHAIKOVSKY’S The Nutcracker
Date: Saturday, December 19; Sunday, December 20
Location: Florida Southern College’s Branscomb Auditorium
Time: 7:30 p.m.(Saturday); 2:30 p.m. (Sunday)
Details: Lakeland’s own professional dance company, the Florida Dance Theatre, brings its celebrated annual production of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker to the stage of Branscomb Auditorium. Performed with charm and perfection by the dynamic dancers of FSC’s company-in-residence, this breathtaking production features colorful scenery, dazzling costumes, and entrancing choreography. As a special treat, community children join the professional dancers, creating a family-friendly, feel-good performance event.
 

Local Theater Events:

Christmas at the Ramon
Date: Saturday, December 5
Location: Ramon Theater, Frostproof
Time: 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
Details: This celebration of the Christmas Season featuring choirs and individual performers, coming together for a family-friendly gathering, with songs and community caroling. Donations of non-perishable items will be collected to benefit the Frostproof Care Center.
 
The Christmas Orange Luncheon
Date: Saturday, December 5
Location: Ramon Theater, Frostproof
Time: 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
Details: This festive holiday celebration event is guaranteed to bring back back memories of the days when a Florida orange (perhaps from Frostproof) in your stocking was a special treat. Enjoy a light lunch and live “old fashioned” entertainment, an original historical holiday skit with Frostproof at its heart. Tickets: $20
 
A Canadian Brass Holiday
Date: Tuesday, December 8
Location: The Lakeland Center
Time: 7:30 p.m.-9:15 p.m.
Details: The Imperial Symphony Orchestra welcomes the world-renown Canadian Brass to the stage to celebrate the sounds of the season with this Masterworks concert.
 
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Date: Friday, December 11; Saturday, December 12; Sunday, December 13
Location: Lakeland Community Theatre (Lake Mirror Theatre)
Time: Times vary by date.
Details: This is a Theater for Youth production based on the television special by Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson. Cost: $15 Adults; $12 Children (12 & Under)
December 11: 7:30 p.m.; December 12: 2:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; December 13: 2:00 p.m.
 
The Crystal Nutcracker
Date: Saturday, December 12
Location: Polk Theatre, Lakeland
Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Details: The scenes are filled with creative costumes, exciting dance movement, a variety of rhythm and sounds including Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite, and African drumming. Performed in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Swing, Jazz, African, and, Hip Hop this dance spectacular is not the typical holiday nutcracker. General Admission: Adult $20; Children 12 and under $15
 
HUMBUG! The Musical
Date: Sunday, December 13
Location: Polk Theatre, Lakeland
Time: 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
Details: HUMBUG! features a lively original score by Harnick & Legrand, high production values, evocative lighting, and video projections that bring the audience right into Dickens’s classic tale of redemption and eternal hope.This world premiere re-tells the beloved Christmas story with a tunefulness that highlights its humor, humanity, and heart-warming sentiment.
General Admission: Adult $15; Ages 5-12 $10; 4 and under free
 
Johnny Dee & The Starlights Christmas Sock Hop
Date: Tuesday, December 15; Wednesday, December 16
Location: Theatre Winter Haven
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Details: Rock out while this incredible band takes you back to the 50’s, Christmas style featuring the music of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, The Ronettes and much more. Advance tickets: $27; Subscribers: $24
 
Dinner and a Movie: Christmas Vacation
Date: Saturday, December 19
Location: Polk Theatre, Lakeland
Time: Dinner: 6:30 p.m.; Movie: 7:30 p.m.
Details: HUMBUG! features a lively original score by Harnick & Legrand, high production values, evocative lighting, and video projections that bring the audience right into Dickens’s classic tale of redemption and eternal hope.This world premiere re-tells the beloved Christmas story with a tunefulness that highlights its humor, humanity, and heart-warming sentiment.
Tickets are $20 for dinner and the movie. Movie-only tickets will be available for $5 at the door the night of the showing. General Admission: Adult $15; Ages 5-12 $10; 4 and under free
 
Thelma Kells Christmas Organ Concert
Date: Sunday, December 20
Location: Polk Theatre, Lakeland
Time: 4 p.m.-6 p.m.
Details: The 1st Annual Thelma Kells Christmas Organ Concert with Guest Artists.
 
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
Date: Wednesday, December 30
Location: The Lakeland Center
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Details: The ultimate holiday tradition for the youngest to the seniors in every family, seeing Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker creates holiday memories that last a lifetime. The renowned, award-winning principal dancers and corps de ballet thrill audiences with their expertise, dramatic expression and stunning leaps, drops and turns.
 

Attraction Events:

Children’s Holiday Workshop during Downtown Holiday Walkabout
Date: Friday, December 4
Location: Explorations V Children’s Museum, Lakeland
Time: 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
Details: Decorations and holiday fun for kids of all ages while parents work on their shopping list during the Downtown Holiday Walkabout.
$12/members; $15/non-members; Pre-registration/pre-payment required
 
Bartow Ford Winter Wonderland
Date: Saturday, December 5
Location: Bartow Ford
Time: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Details: Bartow Ford and 97 Country have teamed together to create a FREE Winter Wonderland event featuring a 30 foot snow slide and snow play area, free photos with Santa, the Polar Express train, musical guests Elsa, Anna and Olaf, a bounce house, face painting, food from Uncle Mike’s Barbeque for purchase, and more.
 
Santa’s Workshop with Family Fundamentals
Date: Saturday, December 5
Location: Family Fundamentals, Lakeland (1021 Lakeland Hills Blvd.)
Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Details: Enjoy a traditional Christmas experience with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The event will include photos with Santa, hands-on holiday activities, and holiday storytime. Santa will also hand out books to the children.
 
Sunset & Symphony Holiday Concert
Date: Saturday, December 5
Location: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
Time: 6 p.m.
Details: Enjoy the sounds of the season with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon as they perform together during one of Central Florida’s favorite outdoor concerts. Families and friends are encouraged to prepare themed picnics and experience a magical evening as the sun sets atop Iron Mountain. $20 adults / $8 children (5-12) / $18 members
 
Caroling with Kerry A Tune
Date: Monday, December 7
Location: Explorations V Children’s Museum, Lakeland
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Details: Stir up the holiday spirit! Families are invited to a music lesson snippet with Kerry, followed by caroling together.
 
Holiday Home Workshop
Date: Saturday, December 12
Location: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
Time: 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
Details: Local artist Catherine Price leads a workshop designing beautiful holiday décor using palm fronds to create “boondoggles.” $15/person. Supplies included. Reservations are required.
 
Carillon & Chorale Concert plus Holiday Home Tour Open Late
Date: Sunday, December 20
Location: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Details: Enjoy an hour-long carillon concert with a live choir under the evening stars. Before or after the concert, visit Pinewood Estate for a special nighttime tour complete with hot chocolate and cookies. It’s a unique opportunity to visit the Gardens after normal operating hours. Enjoy a light dinner at the Blue Palmetto Café before the concert for an additional fee. Last entry to Pinewood Estate is at 9:30 p.m. Concert Only: $5/person; free for members. Concert & Home Tour: $13/person; $7 for members.
 
Christmas Day at Bok Tower Gardens
Date: Friday, December 25
Location: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
Time: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. (Last admission at 5 p.m.)
Details: Bok Tower will distribute 1,000 time-specific tickets for the Holiday Home Tour on a first-come, first-served basis on Christmas day. Enjoy the café, gift shop, Holiday Home Tour, gardens and carillonneur Geert D’hollander. Regular Gardens admission rates still apply.
 
Kids’ New Year’s Eve
Date: Thursday, December 31
Location: LEGOLAND Florida, Winter Haven
Time: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Details: Celebrate New Year’s Eve at LEGOLAND Florida where the giant LEGO brick drops at a very kid-friendly midnight KST (Kid Standard Time) – otherwise known as 7 p.m. EST. Other event elements include fireworks and a dance party DJ.
 

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Winter Haven PEP Center Seeks Volunteers to Assist Elementary Students

PEP needs you! The PEP after-school elementary program is a collaboration between the Learning Resource Center of Polk County, Inc. and the Public Education Partnership of Winter Haven, Inc. Currently, the after-school program is near student-enrollment capacity and is in need of volunteers to help at the center. This is a great opportunity for those looking to give back, high school students working on community service hours, college students looking for experience, and those with free time on their hands. pep photo2015
The program runs Monday-Thursday weekly from 3:30-5:30 p.m. with the exception of school holidays. It is set up so that students in grades 1-3 attend on Mondays and Wednesdays, while students in grades 4-5 attend on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Groups of students rotate through four stations each day (playground and snack, computers – Moby Max, homework, elective) with one of the six teachers. The PEP Center is located at 203 Avenue R NE in Winter Haven. Students are bused to the location and attend free of charge.
 
PEP is searching for committed volunteers who can dedicate their time to help students succeed.
 
Opportunities include:
 

  • Playground assistants, 3:30-4:00 p.m. — 4-6 volunteers
  • Teacher assistants (rotate with students), 4:00-5:30 p.m. — 6 volunteers
  • Stationary assistants (help with homework; assist 1:1), 4:00-5:30 p.m. — 2-4 volunteers

 
We hope that you will consider this opportunity and help us spread the word. If you are interested in volunteering with PEP, please contact Audrey Nettlow at Audrey@whpep.org and RebeccaT@LRCPolk.com.
 
PEP needs YOU as a partner in order to do a great job for our young learners!
pep photo2015-2

Click for information on the start of the after-school program.

 

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Fall Festivals and Halloween Events This Weekend and Beyond in Polk County 2015

Are you looking for all the fall fun this weekend through early November? You’ve come to the right place! Take a look at Polk County’s Halloween happenings and autumn festivities below.
 

Click here for Fall 2017 events.


 

Multiple-Date Events:

Friday, October 23-Saturday, October 24

2015 Polk County Sheriff’s Office Haunted Jail Tour
Where: Lawrence Crow Jr. Center, Bartow
Time: 6:00-11:00 p.m.
Details: This is a family-friendly event, and your chance to visit the “old jail” that’s haunted. Food and drink will be available for purchase. You’ll also find bounce houses, trick-or-treat locations, and fun for the whole family. Proceeds benefit the United Way of Central Florida. The cost is a $5 donation or $7 “kid’s package”.
 

Saturday, October 24-Sunday, October 25

Pioneer Days Festival
Where: Lake Wailes, Lake Wales
Time: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Saturday; 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Sunday
Details: There will be live entertainment on stage both days. Living history re-enactments, artisan and tradesmen demonstrations, pony rides, children’s activities, a Historic Architecture Carriage Tour, and an Antique Car Parade will showcase the weekend’s festivities.
 

Friday, October 30 and Saturday, October 31

Rocky Horror Picture Show
Where: Polk Theatre, Lakeland
Time: 12:00 a.m.
Details: Let’s do the TIME WARP again…
The Polk Theatre celebrates the 40th Anniversary of ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW. A portion of the proceeds from this event will go toward a dance scholarship for Florida Dance Theatre students. The cost is $15. Prop Bags will be available at the door for the same $5 price as previous years, and contain lots of fun stuff for audience participation during the movie. Doors open each night at 9:00 p.m. for music and pre-show activities. The movie starts at midnight. Costumes are encouraged, so come dressed as your favorite character!
 

Friday, October 30-Sunday, November 1

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Where: Theatre Winter Haven
Time: 7:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Saturday & Sunday
Details: This suspenseful musical is filled with a variety of songs that fit the bill: “A Superstitious Yankee Folk,” “Ghost in the Graveyard” and of course, “The Headless Horseman.”
 

Friday, October 30-Sunday, November 15

Little Shop of Horrors
Where: Lakeland Community Theatre
Time: 7:30 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays; 2:00 p.m Sundays
Details: This PG-13 Lakeland Community Theatre production features the story of the meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn who stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” – after his coworker crush. This foul-mouthed, R & B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it, BLOOD. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II’s out of this world origins and intent towards global domination!
 

Through Friday, October 30

Zombie Farm Paintball Hayride
Where: Smith Family Ranch, Lakeland
Time: 7:00-10:00 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays
Details: Zombie Farm Paintball is a 20 minute hayride, in the dark, that takes you through Zombie Farm’s infectious zones. There have been reports of the living dead lurking in the night, especially around swampy areas. The ranch will supply you with a paintball gun for your protection against these creatures. Admission includes live zombies to shoot at, use of a paintball gun, 200 rounds of ammo and a narrated hayride. The cost is $30 per person. www.smithranchlakeland.com/zombie-farm.html
 

Through Saturday, October 31

Brick-or-Treat
Where: LEGOLAND Florida, Winter Haven
Time: 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays & Sunday
Details: Ghouls, ghosts and goblins descend on Miniland USA transforming it into a haunted adventure with a scavenger hunt in search for these scary creatures that have invaded our famous cities. This spooky event takes place weekends in October, and features trick-or-treating along the brick or treat trail, super brick build activities, the largest LEGO Jack-O-Lantern in the world, Halloween entertainment and an all-kids costume contest with brick-tastic prizes! florida.legoland.com/planning-your-visit/special-events/brick-or-treat-event/
 

Through Saturday, October 31

The Shallow Grave
Where: Winter Haven
Time: 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday
Details: The Shallow Grave is a highly detailed spine tingling scarefest that brings the Central Florida area something they have been missing. An intimate in your face, fear filled environment with custom themes and movie quality sets to put you in the midst of terror unlike anything you have experienced before. The cost is $15-$40. www.theshallowgrave.com
 

Through Sunday, November 1

CornFusion Crop Maze & Fall Festival
Where: Smith Family Ranch, Lakeland
Time: 3:00-6:00 p.m. Saturdays, 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Saturdays, 12:00-6:00 p.m. Sundays
Details: Join the Smith Family Ranch for a fun-filled day at CornFusion Crop Maze & Fall Festival. where you will find about 20 acres of fun for all ages including a pumpkin patch, 8-acre Egyptian Wheat maze, corn box, corn cannon, country store, cow train, miniature mazes, pony rides, and farm animals. www.smithranchlakeland.com/cornfusion-crop-maze-and-fall-festival.html
 

Through Sunday, November 15

Harvest Holler Corn Maze
Where: 950 Tavares Road, Polk City 33868
Time: 4:00-8:00 p.m. Fridays; 12:00-8:00 p.m. Saturdays; 12:00-5:00 p.m. Sundays
Details: Admission includes an interactive corn maze, hayride, hay fort, corn cribs, tire swings, cow train, corn hole and pumpkin patch. The cost is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $8 youth (4-12 years). Kids 3 and under are free. www.harvestholler.com/
 

Single Date-Events:

Saturday, October 24

Ghouls’ Night Out
Where: Downtown Winter Haven
Time: 5:00-8:00 p.m.
Details: The City of Winter Haven will be hosting Ghouls’ Night out which includes candy from area businesses, a hayride, food vendors, a DJ, and lots of fun activities for people of all ages.
 
Halloween Water Ski Show
Where: Lake Silver, Winter Haven
Time: 8:15 p.m.
Details: Free Halloween-themed Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show immediately following Ghouls’ Night Out. Hot Food Concessions available from 5:30 p.m.
 

Sunday, October 25

 
Fall Festival
Where: Lake Eva Park, Haines City
Time: 3:00-6:00 p.m.
Details: You will still see your same favorite free elements and a few extras: inflatables, food, more games, train ride, Ident-A-Kid, Fire Department exhibits, demonstrations by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office SWAT and Rescue teams, and plenty of candy.
 

Thursday, October 29

 

73rd Annual Crickette Club Parade & Carnival
Where: Downtown Bartow & Mosaic Park, Bartow
Time: 4:00-8:00 p.m.
Details: Bartow’s favorite family tradition is now better than ever featuring new rides for tots and teens, expanded food selections including food trucks, new games, costume contest for store-bought and homemade, crickette club’s famous cake walk, drawing for $500, $300, and $100 Visa cards, Bingo and more. All proceeds benefit the Bartow area Girl Scouts and the Bartow Community. Parade is free with the Carnival to follow at Mosaic Park.
 
Safe Haven Halloween
Where: Freedom Park, Polk City
Time: 5:30-8:00 p.m.
Details: Spooky fun for the entire family featuring food, games, prizes and two Halloween classic cartoons for “Movie Night in the Park”.
 
Halloween Harvest
Where: Downtown Auburndale
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Details: Find entertainment, food, crafts, monster trucks, trick-or-treating and a costume contest at Halloween Harvest. The costume contest will begin at 6:00 p.m.
 

Friday, October 30

 
Boo! Bash
Where: Explorations V, Lakeland
Time: 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Details: Pre-school costume party with pumpkins, parade and carnival games perfectly sized for little hands and feet.
 
Fall Fest
Where: 601 Lemon Street, Auburndale
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Details: Find trunk-or-treating in a safe area to collect candy, games, booths, prizes, face painting, music, food, a bounce house, dunk tank, photo booth and cake walk.
 
Halloween Trick-or-Treat Party
Where: Wilfred Smith Resource Center, Winter Haven
Time: 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Details: Polk County Parks and Recreation presents this free Halloween party featuring music, light refreshments, arts & crafts, coloring contests and costume contests.
 

Saturday, October 31

Safe Place to Trick or Treat
Where: Lewis Matthews Complex/Gene Carroll Field, Davenport
Time: 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Details: Enjoy free hot dogs and drinks, cotton candy, popcorn, a haunted house, maze, costume contest and activities.
 
Annual Dundee Fall Fest
Where: Dundee Community Center
Time: 6:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Details: Bring the family out for games, hayrides, food and candy.
 

Saturday, November 7

 

Kathleen Area Historical Society’s Fall Festival
Where: Heritage Park, Kathleen
Time: 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Details: Enjoy this longtime Kathleen area tradition. They may not do it the old-fashioned way with a horse or mule, but they still have a lot of fun preserving and promoting the pioneer skill of freshly manufacturing sugar cane syrup, which will be available for purchase. Entertainment will include Brian Bracey on trumpet (patriotic music in a Veteran’s salute), Dave Anderson (gospel and traditional), Green Swamp Cloggers, Union Academy Bluegrass Band, and The Sweet Teas. Other activities to be offered include:
Cane Grinding/Syrup Making; Pioneer Life Exhibit; Rummage Sale; Children’s Activities; Breakfast & Lunch; Cake Walk & Baked Goods Sale; Vendors and other non profit organizations will also be in attendance. FREE Parking & FREE Admission.
 
 

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Back-to-School Bashes, Health Fairs & Donation Drives

School bells will be ringing soon, signaling that classes are back in session. Before the 2015-2015 year begins, have some fun, get informed, and help other teachers and students at these back-to-school bashes, events, and donation drives taking place throughout Polk County.
 
Student orientation: Thursday, August 20
First day of school for students: Monday, August 24
 
Tax-free holiday: August 7-16
 

Bashes

 
Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, August 8, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Where: Eloise Resource Center 710 Snively Avenue, Eloise
What: Polk County Parks & Recreation’s Back to School Bash is a free family event. Families will get to enjoy free school supplies for children kindergarten through the fifth grade (first come, first served). Families will also enjoy music, educational exhibitors, and children activities. This event will help children start the school year off on the right foot.
Contact: 863-298-4485
 
Back to School Bash

When: Sunday, August 9, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Where: Wilfred Smith Resource Center, 135 Avenue Y N.E., Winter Haven
What: Polk County Parks & Recreation’s Back to School Bash is a free family event. Families will get to enjoy free school supplies for children kindergarten through the fifth grade (first come, first served). Families will also enjoy music, educational exhibitors, and children activities. This event will help children start the school year off on the right foot.
Contact: 863-298-7898
 
BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH Winter Haven

When: Saturday, August 15, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Where: Greater Works Ministries, 2110 Oakhurst Drive, Winter Haven
What: Food, entertainment, various groups with information and resources for children and parents, haircuts, various back-to-school services and games.
Contact: 863-206-5706
 
EMERGE Goes Back to School

When: Tuesday, August 18, 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Where: Crystal Lake Elementary, 700 Galvin Drive, Lakeland
What: EMERGE Lakeland is giving back to some hardworking Polk County teachers! Volunteers will meet at Crystal Lake Elementary for a light breakfast before helping teachers prepare their classrooms for the 2015-2016 school year!
 
Even if you can’t volunteer that day, you can help by donating the following “Back to School” items:
 
Notebooks
Composition Books
Pencils
Crayons
Erasers
Hand Sanitizer
Kleenex
 
Contact: 863-688-8551 ext. 228
 

Back-to-School Extravaganza

When: Saturday, August 22, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Where: Ward and Coney Community Center, 2610 Recker Highway, Winter Haven
What: Many local businesses have come together to provide the community with fun, food, hairstyles, bounce houses, kids craft workshops, health testings, live entertainment and valuable giveaways for this extravaganza. The Guest Speaker will be Altrichia Cook, CEO of Allusions By A.Lekay. School Supplies will be given to a limited number of students.
*Parents must PRE-REGISTERfor the school supply packages.
Contact: 863-288-0099, wardandconeycenter@gmail.com
 
Back to School Pool Bash

When: August 29, 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Where: Winter Haven Recreational and Cultural Center, 801 Ave. T NE, Winter Haven
What: Enjoy food, water slides, bounce houses, games, music, and more at this free community event geared towards ages 6-17.
Contact: 863-291-5675
 

Health Fairs

 
Back To School Health Fair

When: Friday, Aug 8 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Where: Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center, 40100 US Highway 27, Davenport
What: Celebrate back to school with Heart of Florida.

  • School-aged children can enjoy Heart of Florida’s Kid Clinic: a hands-on learning opportunity focused on staying healthy, exercising, and eating right.
  • Heart of Florida’s Teddy Bear Clinic: a special check-up for your child’s teddy bear.
  • Education on concussion awareness, early learning programs, a healthy eating initiative, and more, provided by Nemours Children’s Hospital.
  • Local pediatricians, physicians, police, and EMS offer info on back-to-school screenings & discounts, and keeping kids safe during the school year.
  • Enjoy the fun zone with free crafts, face-painting, and activities.

Contact: RSVP line, 866-997-DOCS
 
Back to School Health Fair

When: Friday, Aug 14, 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Where: Central Florida Health Care, Inc.-Mulberry, 106 NW 9th Ave., Mulberry
What: A Central Florida Health Care back to school health clinic featuring  CFHC school supplies and backpacks also.
Contact: 863-425-6200
 

Donation Drives

 
Stuff the Bus

Stuff the Bus is Central Florida’s largest back-to-school campaign. In addition to the traditional school supplies that are needed such as pens, pencils, wide rule paper, folders with prongs, crayons, markers, backpacks, glue and erasers, you may also donate copy paper, facial tissue, index cards, highlighters, hand sanitizer, zip lock bags, and pencil boxes. Stop by Hall Communications located at 404 West Lime Street in Lakeland between on Wednesday, August 19 between 7:00-8:30 a.m. to deliver your drop-off. Stuff the Bus is taking place throughout Polk County. Here is a list of Lakeland drop-off sites leading up to the August 19th event: Learning Resource Center, Red Elephant Pizza and Grill, Victory Church, Lakeland Association of Realtors, Regal Lakeland, Maximize Digital Media, and The Doggie Bag Boutique. Please visit https://lrcpolk.com/stuff-the-bus-for-students-in-need/for more information.
 
Winter Haven Stuff the Bus Info.
 
Pace Center for Girls – Polk Supply Drive

PACE Polk could use your help with school supplies. They will welcome 48 girls on August 17, and could use supplies such as pencils, binders, notebooks, crayons, dictionaries, markers, glue sticks, and more. Please contact Mayelin Quintero at 863-688-5596 or mayelin.quintero@pacecenter.org for more information on how you can help. You can also find a list of needed supplies on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PaceCenterPolk. Pace Polk is located at 101 West Main Street, Suite 140 in Lakeland.
 

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LRC Offers a Summer Kaleidoscope of Learning

A look at LRC’s 2015 Summer

 
Every June brings an incredible array of educational adventures to the always-open doors of LRC. Some are long-time traditional classes, and others are brand-new opportunities to meet the academic needs of the community. Summer 2015, too, is appropriately unique in its offerings.
 
Here is an overview:
 

Nine Camp READY!’s

Campers aged 5-6 years old participate in LRC’s award-winning month-long activity-based program designed to increase their success in Kindergarten. Sites for 2015 are Frostproof, Lake Wales, Winter Haven, Haines City, Poinciana, Bartow, Ft. Meade, North Lakeland, and South Lakeland.
 

Super Summer Success  

Elementary school students perfected their reading and math skills in engaging projects and participatory activities. The classes were hosted at Highland City Elementary School for four weeks.  Parents were invited to celebrate completed projects and learning gains.
 

Study Habits for Highly Successful Students

Middle School and High School students identified and practiced strategies to improve organization and time management skills, test-taking techniques, critical thinking, listening and focusing tips, and effective communication in a week-long class at LRC Offices.
 

ACT, SAT, GRE, and TOEFL Test Prep

LRC is offering test preparation to students with myriad needs this summer. Students hoping to secure a Bright Futures Scholarships or college acceptance are enrolled in classes at the LRC Center. Students studying with the Galindo Tennis Academy are working with English vocabulary and grammar in classes held on Florida Southern College campus.
 

Community-based Education

Two new initiatives through Heartland for Children take LRC teachers to Auburndale and Sebring. IRACE, an initiative to involve underserved youth, has partnered with LRC to offer intensive math tutoring, study skills, and Florida Virtual School coaching.  Hansen House, a residential program in Highlands County, is the scene for one-to-one tutoring.

 

Related Posts:

Gear Up For a Summer of Success
Camp READY! Prepares Kindergartners for Achievement
Catch the Summer Spirit with Super Summer Success
Eight Fun Facts about Camp READY!
Master the ACT or SAT with LRC Test Prep
Camp READY! 2015 is “On Go”
Begin Your Journey to Success with College Success Planning
Acquire the Study Habits of Successful Students with LRC

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LRC Students Received 1,040 Hours of Tutoring in May

In the month of May, Learning Resource Center students received 1,040 hours of tutoring bringing the Year-To-Date Total to 12,069 hours. New and ongoing students tutored during the month of May equaled 255 students, with the Year-to-Date Total at 800 students.
May 2015 Tutoring Hours Infographic (1)

 

Thanks to all of our tutors and students for your time, efforts, and hard work. It’s paying off!

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Camp READY! 2015 is “On Go”

The Camp READY! sites located in Frostproof (at Frostproof Church of God) and Lake Wales (at First United Methodist Church) opened their doors to excited rising and struggling kindergartners this week. Through creative experential activities, five- and six-year-olds express, practice, investigate, and create. Both Camps are funded with LRC’s United Way of Central Florida allocation.
 
This successful summer program is designed to prepare both rising and repeating kindergartners for academic success through hands-on, experiential learning centers featuring art, music and movement, cooking, and reading readiness centers. Camp READY! builds pre-reading skills while also providing a safety net to allow children more time to continue motor, social and cognitive development. On average, Camp READY! students who attend the full program demonstrate learning gains of SEVEN months in vocabulary development from pre- to post-assessment. The cost of Camp READY! is $25.00. For families with documented financial need, scholarships are available.
 
For more on Camp READY! and to find other camp sites throughout Polk County, please visit our blogs Camp READY! Prepares Kindergartners for Achievement and Eight Fun Facts About Camp READY!.

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Stay Connected and up to date with information.

Address:

1628 Florida Ave S.
Lakeland, FL 33803

Phone:

(863) 688-9477

Office Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: Closed

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Address:

1628 Florida Ave S.
Lakeland, FL 33803

Phone:

(863) 688-9477

Office Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: Closed

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