West Haven Elementary School Kids Become University of New Haven Students for a Day

Ryan M., a fourth-grader from West Haven, recently spent a day at the University of New Haven, where he and his classmates got a taste of college life.

They visited the University for its annual "Class at the Court" program, spending the morning in the classroom taking crash courses in language arts, math, and science.

"It was a lot of fun," he said. "We got to learn about the University. The campus is very big, and it was cool to visit."

The University’s young visitors later stepped out of the classroom to shoot hoops at the Beckerman Recreation Center and had lunch like Chargers, eating at The Marketplace in Bartels Hall.

"We got to learn about the University. The campus is very big, and it was cool to visit."Ryan M.

Joanne Guthrie, a social worker at Alma E. Pagels Elementary School, says the event was a terrific opportunity for the kids to experience what life can be like after high school.

"This was a great event, and it made the kids feel special," she said. "It was a wonderful way for them to experience a sense of community and volunteerism in action. The University staff members were very supportive."

After lunch, it was the University of New Haven women’s basketball team that took to the court. The kids, who scored University of New Haven t-shirts and seats to the team’s game against Bentley University, cheered as the Chargers defeated nationally ranked Bentley 53-40.

"It was a pleasure working with the kids and showing them what the University has to offer," said Dave Faugno, a strength and conditioning coach at the University. "The University is in their backyard, and it was great for them to see the campus, as well as what they can aspire to."