Archive: Around Town

A few times per year Cornell Cooperative Extension's Linda Schoffel brings staff to keep the Town Board up to date on Lansing Youth Services.  The Town helps fund the program that operates a variety of programs in the Lansing Middle School and a job training program in the High School.  This time in addition to bringing the program managers, she brought children to tell the Board  about the program from their point of view.  "We thought you might like to hear it from kids," she said.


Lansing High School freshman Robin Presthus told the board that he has been involved in the program since fifth grade.  Presthus not only participated in many of the programs offered, but he helped interview the past two program managers.  Last summer he organized a party at Myers Park for outgoing program manager Micaela Cook.  He told the board that the program is honing his leadership skills as he works with younger kids.  Another freshman noted that she loves getting paid for the work she does.

"The goal of Rural Youth Services is to promote positive youth development," Schoffel said.  "That's an intentional process where we look at research on what kids need to have positive outcomes.  The research says that kids need opportunities to try new things and develop life skills, and to develop relationships with their peers, and with adults outside their family -- that's a big one.  And contribute to their communities in supported, comfortable environments where they feel they belong."


"As you know the program has just exploded," said Dawn Kleeschulte, who manages the high school jobs program.  She noted that several students have been hired by the school district after working in her program at the bus garage and after school program.  "This year I have had up to 35 students on the payroll.  It's a wonderful opportunity."

"Personally I've always supported this program," said Town Supervisor Steve Farkas.  "You do a wonderful job.  I hope it continues and we'll certainly do the best we can to continue to support the program.

Middle School Program Manager Isabel Bazaldua brought two younger students who told the board about a myriad of programs they have attended.  These range from art programs to the popular 'Primitive Pursuits' that teaches kids survival and cooperation in the wilderness.  "It's been exciting and challenging, and fascinating and delightful," said Bazaldua.  "We have fun and exciting programs that facilitates communication between students, dialog, partnership, and sharing resources."


Bazaldua noted that Kristin Sherman, who also spoke to the board, had created a program called 'Friends.'  "She is driving the train on Friends", she said.  "It was her idea.  She is encouraging her classmates to be leaders.  That is really exciting.

Schoffel explained that program managers throughout the county meet and share experiences to help each other with strategies that work.  "I think it's invaluable," she said.  "When those developmental needs are met kids have better outcomes in resisting risk behaviors."

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