Just in time for summer, the City of Lockhart and Lockhart Independent School District (LISD) launched a joint summer recreation program called “Lockhart Summer Teen Center.” The program is free and aims to fill the need for positive recreational activities for local youth aged 13-18 over the summer.

Beginning June 7, participants will be able to meet from 12 - 5 p.m. on weekdays at LISD facilities, including Adams Gym, PRIDE High School’s cafeteria, and the field behind the M.L. Cisneros Education Support Center. There, they will have options to play indoor soccer, basketball, horseshoes, cornhole, board games, and other activities. Free lunches will also be provided.

The City and LISD have a history of collaboration and partnership, as members of the Northern Caldwell County Coalition (NCCC) along with Caldwell County, communicating and meeting regularly to discuss local needs and opportunities.

Mayor Lew White and Lockhart City Council members gave final approval to the program at the April 6th council meeting. With that vote, the City agrees to contribute 50-percent of the program’s cost, which will help cover personnel, supplies, and utility expenses.

“The City of Lockhart and LISD are proud to announce a new partnership for our city's youth,” said Mayor White. “The City sees this as the beginning of a parks and recreation program to build on for the future.”

The Mayor added that summer programs, like the Lockhart Summer Teen Center, provide a much-needed safe haven for teenagers through educational support, physical activity, and socialization; while also giving working families peace of mind.

“The district is so grateful for the City’s partnership in launching this much-needed program for our teens,” said Superintendent Mark Estrada. “In Lockhart ISD, we believe in whole-child education, which means every student should be challenged, healthy, engaged, safe, and supported.”

“The development of this program, through this partnership, provides equitable access to recreational activities that directly support healthy adolescent development,” Superintendent Estrada added.

“Lockhart ISD Community Education is excited to partner with the City of Lockhart to provide a fun, safe recreation opportunity for the teens in our community this summer,” shared LISD Director of Community Education Karla Tate. “We hope many teens will take advantage of this free, fun program!”

Stay tuned for more information about the program and how to apply through the City’s and LISD’s websites and social media channels. The program continues through August 1.