Red Bank Middle School student artwork created during a six-week enrichment program was on display at the Children's Cultural Center, Red Bank. Right, Basha Alprin leads a group of young drummers.

RED BANK - Fourth-graders at Red Bank Middle School last week celebrated the end of a six-week enrichment program piloted by the Children's Cultural Center (CCC), a branch of The Community YMCA.

At an exhibit, students displayed their writing projects, participated in writing stations and joined in an African dance and music performance led by Basha Alprin.

The exhibit was held earlier this month at the CCC, 51 Monmouth St., Red Bank.

"The enrichment program afforded our students an opportunity to further enhance their learning. Middle school students' interests and talents were tapped through a creative and developmentally appropriate approach. We are very appreciative of the positive partnership established with The Community YMCA," said Laura C. Morano, Red Bank superintendent of schools.

Young Authors and Artists Unite began in April and was held at Red Bank Middle School each Wednesday and Thursday. Throughout the program, each fourth-grade class met with teachers and local artists from the CCC in a unique opportunity to explore reading and writing through the arts.

The program was made possible by a grant from the Gibson Foundation to support art and cultural activities at the YMCA. For more information on outreach and enrichment programs available through the CCC, call (732) 842-7177 or visit www.TheCommunity

YMCA.org.