The PALS project (Positive Alternative Learning at Shearn) is designed to provide quality enrichment classes/child care at Shearn Elementary which will promote positive self-esteem and develop academic and personal skills in our students. Parents and community members indicated a need for an after-school program since the 1997-1998 school year and the efforts of parents, staff and community members resulted in the implementation of the PALS program. Parents at Shearn have become more vocal and are taking a more active role in pursuing special programs to assist their children. The school community supported the PALS project last year and is ready to continue to assist in its expansion.

The project is serving approximately 150 students each semester in grades k-5 who have been identified as needing either supervision after school hours, academic help, or who show a desire to participate in enrichment classes to develop personal as well as academic skills. Students are selected based on student/parent need. Priority is given to students in the first two categories.