Education is in full bloom at Rainy River Community College, but not for the average college crowd.

From July 11-21 kids ages 4-13 are busy taking different classes during a two-week learning experience.

“The program definitely gives kids something to do and taps into their adult interests” said Dawn Flesland, who is serving as the new director of the program.

Flesland said that she is very excited to direct College for Kids and adds that as a child, she was enrolled in the program.

“I just feel it (the program) is very beneficial for the kids,” she said. “I will admit though, it is a change of pace to be behind the scenes, I’m used to teaching classes, so this is exciting, but different.”

This year, the College for Kids schedule returned some favorite classes including mad science, fun with food, kids and critters and into the woods, Flesland explained. Soccer, photography, and origami are among new classes.

Soccer instructor Wade Sutton, who is involved with a soccer program in the Falls, thought College for Kids would be a great opportunity to get kids interested in the sport.

“I think the kids are really enjoying learning about it (soccer),” Sutton said. “Some of them get pretty into it.”

Dance instructor Hallie Bates also commented that her group of dancers appeared to be enjoying their experience under her instruction.

“They are learning the routine really fast,” Bates said. “I’m really happy with both my classes.”

Those taking dancing and cheerleading will perform at noon on July 22 at the RRCC Theater and invite the community to attend, free of charge. Story reading, art and photography will feature an exhibit at the same time.

Flesland said most seem to be enjoying the 15 different one-hour classes.

“Although they would miss the first week, we welcome kids to register for the second,” Flesland said.

Several of the classes spark interest from youngsters claiming they already know what career path they will follow. Such was the case for Jace Keeney who sat in the mad science class discussing his desire to be a scientist when he grows up.

“I want to find a cure for death and be a marine biologist,” Keeney boasted.

“We have 122 kids enrolled so far,” Flesland told The Journal Tuesday. “We have a lot of kids from Canada and some who are new to the community. Several new friends are being made.”

Flesland hopes that at the end of next week’s classes, kids will walk away with positive memories and will have enjoyed the program.

“I want kids to feel comfortable with the college, and their parents, too.” Flesland concluded. “I think College for Kids is a great way to tie the community with the college and for kids to come have a good time.”

For more information on the College for Kids program, contact Flesland at 324-2828.