DC Parks and Rec. hosts first ‘Summer Cooldown’ to prepare students for new school year

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — Classes are almost back in session for students across D.C. To help get students ready for the school year, D.C. Parks and Recreation is hosting its “ Summer Time Cooldown .”

The event kicked off on Wednesday welcoming kids between the ages of 12 through 18 to relax and learn about the DPR Esports League, which will start in the fall. According to the D.C. Parks and Recreation website , the initiative aims to provide children with a positive outlet and a fun, creative environment before returning back to the classroom.

Marcus Allen, the Youth Development Manager with the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation said they host several events each year but this is the first time the department has held a “Summertime Cooldown.”

“It’s an idea that one of my staff members came up with to do something between summer camp and the start of school to give kids a place to have an outlet and safe place. And then give out school supplies and backpacks,” said Allen.

From notebooks to pens and pencils, Allen shared that the backpacks are stuffed with supplies for the new school year.

Starting at noon on Aug. 22, the department held its second day of the “Summer Cooldown” at the Turkey Thicket Recreation Center.

For more information, visit the D.C. Parks and Recreation website .

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