A program whose goal is to provide supervised, structured after-school activities for middle school students isn’t generating much interest at Canton Middle School.

Save Our Students is a state-sponsored program whose primary mission is to “provide homework help along with various activites that promote a sense of community and teamwork,” according to information sent home to parents.

However, instructor Chris Lowe says only about 12 students are showing up each day. The school’s enrollment is about 530.

“We really need to get the word out that we have a good program here,” said Lowe.

SOS is open to any student and fees are based on a sliding scale, with some families paying as little as $1 a day.

The program is from 3-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. It is housed in a first-floor room at CMS that has a ping pong table, fooseball, air hockey and tables and couches where students can do their homework. Computers have been purchased and are in boxes awaiting set up.

Students in the program also discuss conflict avoidance and social skills. Snacks are provided and there are also field trips. Students can attend intermittently and don’t need to come every day.

Lowe says he thinks many in the community believe SOS is for unruly or at-risk students. That is not the case, he said.

“The state thinks it’s a good idea to have supervised, group activities, and so we got this grant,” he said. “Any kid who wants to come can. There are no parameters.”

Lowe said the two-year program can help parents who otherwise might have to leave their children at home alone until they get off work.

“It’s really a great opportunity to go somewhere safe, interact, do homework, all for next to nothing as far as costs are concerned,” he said.

A few days ago the SOS program sponsored a “bring a friend” day and an “open house” to try and get the word out about the program. Next to no one showed up.

“You always hear about people complaining that this side of Haywood County never gets anything. Here we have a golden opportunity and no one’s showing up,” said Lowe.

One of the key components of SOS is that participants get to provide input into the programming. Programs already held include scuba, gardening/landscaping and water safety. Call 646.3449 for information.

 

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