With the school year underway, Milford Community School Use Program has had a busy and exciting fall! From children's activities and school-based clubs to adult classes, there has been something for everyone to enjoy. As we continue to expand our offerings and introduce new opportunities, we are excited to see so many members of the community getting involved.

Pool programs 

Our pool programs have gotten off to a great start this fall, with Lap Swim, SplasHIIT, and Stingrays Swim Clinics all up and running. Whether residents are looking to stay active, get in a workout, or improve their swimming skills, our aquatic programs offer opportunities for a variety of interests and experience levels.

After-school clubs and youth programs 

Our after-school clubs at Woodland Elementary School have also been a big hit with students! We now offer four clubs: Art Explorers, STEM Club, Board Game Club, and Newspaper Club. These programs give students the chance to explore their interests, get creative, work together, and learn something new in a fun and welcoming environment. We also introduced a new after-school tennis clinic for middle school students on Thursdays throughout October. The clinic has provided another opportunity for students to stay active and develop their skills, and we look forward to bringing it back each season.

Some of our most popular children's programs have returned this fall, including Movie Nights, Culinary Creations, and Kids Night Out. These returning favorites were a big hit with participants, and we love seeing families continue to enjoy these opportunities. Along with bringing back familiar programs, we have introduced new experiences for children and families to enjoy. Our Haunted Bus Tour brought plenty of Halloween spirit to Milford, with children dressed in their costumes as they traveled to stops around town to collect candy and enjoy a festive evening. We also launched Community Use Adventures, a new program that gives children the opportunity to explore destinations beyond the classroom. Our first adventure took participants to Tougas Family Farm for a day of apple picking and seasonal fun, with more adventures planned for the future.

Fitness, wellness, adult programs

Community Use has also been offering a wide variety of programs for adults this fall, with opportunities to stay active, try something new, and take time for themselves. Our fitness offerings have included Zumba, Strength Cardio, Gentle Yoga, and Stiff Man Yoga, giving residents several ways to incorporate movement and exercise into their routines. We also introduced a new Meditation and Sound Bath class, providing a different approach to relaxation and wellness. For those who prefer to keep moving at their own pace, our Indoor Walking Program is back for the season! Residents can walk indoors Monday through Friday for one registration fee, making it an easy and affordable way to stay active throughout the colder months. The program will continue through May 28, 2027, following the Milford Public Schools calendar.

Beyond fitness and wellness, our adult offerings have included American Sign Language, Acrylic Painting, and Make Your Own Doormat. Our free Estate Planning class was especially popular, providing residents with an opportunity to learn valuable information in an accessible setting at Milford High School. 

Exciting programs on the horizon

The excitement doesn't stop here! We have plenty of upcoming programs for residents to look forward to as we head into the winter months. One exciting addition is The Long Game, a new free seminar led by Milford High School Assistant Principal Rich Piergustavo. Designed for parents and students, the seminar will help families navigate the youth sports landscape, build character, and develop a healthy, long-term approach to athletics. The program will focus on the parent journey from youth sports through high school, with guidance for families as they consider the possibility of college athletics.

We are also looking forward to our next Community Use Adventures trip! On Dec. 29, students in grades K–5 will have the opportunity to travel to Agganis Arena in Boston to experience Disney On Ice during winter break. This trip offers families another fun way to keep children entertained and make the most of their time off from school. Additional upcoming programs include cooking classes, guided paint nights for both children and adults, along with a Family Craft Night where everyone in the family can come together to create something special. 

We are proud to continue growing our programs while offering experiences that are fun, engaging, and accessible to Milford residents of all ages. There is always something new happening with Community Use! We encourage residents to keep an eye out for upcoming programs and registration announcements so they don't miss out on what's next.

Submitted by Milford Community School Use Program