Western Md. Kids To Get Adventure Sports Lessons

McHENRY, Md. (AP) -- Rock climbing and canoeing are becoming extracurricular activities for students at two elementary schools and a middle school in far western Garrett County.

The Cumberland Times-News reports that the Garrett College Adventure Sports Institute, the county health department and the local school board will offer the activities starting April 19. The program is funded by a United Way grant.

The kids will attend weekly after-school classes on the campuses of Grantsville and Accident elementary schools and Southern Middle School in Oakland. They'll also spend a Saturday practicing their skills at New Germany State Park.

The community college says the program is aimed at boosting school attendance and high-school graduation rates.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)