Sussex Consortium initiative aims to enrich social and leisure skills

The Sussex Consortium recently launched a program of quarterly after-school gatherings designed to provide opportunities for students with the highest needs to develop social and leisure skills, and have fun.

Implemented by highly qualified Sussex Consortium staff volunteers, the opportunity is available to students at the Sussex Consortium Sweetbriar Road building.

This initiative ensures meaningful and engaging opportunities as well as equitable access to programming that mirrors those available to other students throughout the district. By creating inclusive experiences tailored to each student’s needs, these after-school events help promote connection, communication and joy through safe, structured activities.

“In addition to benefiting students, these events also serve as a way strengthen partnerships with families,” said Coleen Brittingham, a Sussex Consortium teacher and after-school advisor. “By providing a safe, engaging environment for their children, parents and guardians are given a brief but meaningful window of time for themselves, knowing their students are being supported and celebrated in a safe and encouraging setting.”

During the first after-school event, students had the opportunity to participate in a variety of fall-themed activities including cupcake decorating and pumpkin painting.

Looking ahead, the initiative may expand to incorporate student volunteers from across Cape Henlopen district schools. This addition would help foster positive peer interactions, provide valuable peer models and offer student volunteers the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in education and community service. It may also inspire them to consider careers in teaching and special education.

These events are part of the district’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that every student has access to enriching and developmentally appropriate opportunities.