ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- Elmira College is offering two new summer programs that will let middle school and high school students try their hand at the ancient Japanese technique of Raku or earn their American Red Cross Babysitting Certification. 

The two courses are a first for Elmira College, who developed the programs as a way to connect with the Southern Tier community.

"We want to invite the community more onto campus and become a little more integrated," said Melanie Moon, Coordinator of Career Services and Community Engagement at Elmira College. "So, now that COVID is done, for the most part, we've got lots of opportunities for collaboration with our community."

The first program that will be offered is the Babysitting Course, whic will take place on June 28 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Open to students aged 11 years and older, the course aims to help pre-teens and teenagers feel confident as they start to earn their own money and develop job skills. 

The one-time course taught by Moon will teach participants about household management, developmental games and activities, fire safety, diapering, feeding and general safety. Students will also receive CPR and First Aid training without certification. All participants will receive American Red Cross Baby Sitting Certification. Registration is $25 per person, and those interested must register by Monday, June 19. 

Teenagers aged 16 years old and up can additionally participate in Elmira College’s Raku Workshop. This course introduces the students to the ancient Japanese technique for creating unique ceramic items. 

The workshop includes five classes held in the evenings from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on July 10, 11, 17 and 18. The sessions on July 10 and 11 will focus on participants creating their ceramic works. On July 17, students will glaze their pieces, with the fire work happening on July 18. The four-day workshop costs $150 per person, covering the materials and firings. 

Registration for both programs can be found on Elmira College’s website.