Austin Public Schools offers a program that not only provides before- and after-school care for children ages 3 to fifth grade, but plans fun, educational activities year-round.

Kids Korner was founded by a kindergarten teacher at the former Shaw Elementary School in 1986.

“It started with 15 children,” explained Teri Wermager, Kids Korner coordinator.

Today, about 260 kids — a slight increase from last year — are enrolled in the program’s six sites in Austin: Community Learning Center, Woodson Kindergarten Center and Neveln, Sumner, Southgate and Banfield elementary schools.

Although children are continuously welcome to enroll, registration begins in March for summer programming.

This summer, Kids Korner will be located at Ellis Middle School, and new to this year, it will include pre-K students up to those entering sixth grade. Participants can also take advantage of the district’s free summer lunch program at Ellis.

“Parents don’t have to worry about providing lunch for them,” Wermager said.

Kids Korner activities include field trips, producing a newspaper, art sessions, computer time and gym.

On days when there is no school, like Feb. 23, Kids Korner will provide all-day care at Banfield.

The cost for Kids Korner is $3 per hour, and county assistance billing is accepted. The program also accepts children with special needs if Kids Korner is able to accommodate the level of care required.

To register, contact one of the six Kids Korner sites or call 433-0928.