Posted by Bob Conner
on 6/17/2009, 6:02 pm
As Summer approaches I recall how we looked forward to the Vacation Playground programs run by the Board of Education. We referred to it as 'Summer School'. It was a great program for kids of all ages and free. I lived next to PS88 in those days. The staff usually consisted of 3 men and two women. The women taught arts and crafts for the girls. The men ran the more physical activities like softball. There were always games to be had in the school yard. Knock Hockey was most popular. Shuffleboard, quoits, peg boards, Volley Ball,also had a following. Usually a field trip to a free New York City baseball game was to be had too. The end of the season was capped with a 'Field Day' of sports participation held at Newtown High School. Sack races, peanut hunts and all kinds of activities were recognized by the awards of trophies. We were always fortunate at PS88 to have had some fine teachers. Bob Ellenberg, George Deal, Mr. Foreman, Mrs. Vogel, Mrs. Boyle and James Smith come to mind. James Smith came to PS88 for a few years in a row and was very popular. He eventually became a Catholic Priest and served in several Queens churches. My favorite was Bob Ellenberg who, untiringly, always managed to keep interesting activities going. A large part of my childhood memories connect with the Summer School at PS88. Gentler, fun filled, halcyon days.
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