Parks and Rec Expands Offerings with Before-School Programs

Cranberry is offering several new and expanded offerings through its parks and recreation department, including a before-school program, to help parents trying to juggle work and family life.

"We're providing a service for parents," said Pete Geis, parks and recreation director.

"Trying to fit children into a work schedule can be very difficult. This is going to work out very well."

Nearly 20 families already have signed up for the before-school program for students ages 5 through 12, Geis said.

Students will participate in activities, including getting help with homework.

Parents will be able to drop off their children at the municipal building beginning at 7 a.m., and the Seneca Valley School District will transport them to their schools.

The district also buses students back to the municipal building at the end of the school day to participate in after-school activities, including library sessions from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The Seneca Valley district has been working with the township on programs for the children.

Among the other new or expanded programs, Geis said, are: an intramural sports program with an option to be part of the after-school program; the launching of an adult basketball league; new foreign language programs; and new dance programs.

Within the past year, according to Geis, more than 100,000 people have used township parks or other recreational programs and facilities.

The township offers programs for various ages, from early childhood through adult.

Copies of "Live, Learn & Play" a directory of all the recreation programs, have been mailed to Cranberry homes.

Copies also are available at the parks and recreation department in the township municipal building.

Registration for programs is open at the township office or by calling 724-776-4806, ext. 1129, or by going online at www.cranberrytownship.org/programs.

Bill Vidonic is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. He can be reached at 412-380-5621 or [email protected]