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A 'Prime Time' for studying at Northside
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Times photo: Brenda Steurer Josh Smith, 10, left and Kobe Manor, 9, work on homework assignments Tuesday at Northside Elementary School in Monroe. As part of the Prime Time program, students are able to come to the school early on Tuesdays and Thursdays to work on their homework or eat breakfast. Order photo
MONROE - Northside Elementary School students who want a little extra help or just want to start their day off in a positive way are welcome to come to "Prime Time."

After a one-year absence, the program found its way back to the school, school psychologist Amy Timmerman said.

Students come to the cafeteria from 7:40 to 8:10 on Tuesday and Thursday mornings for help with their homework. Students can practice their spelling, learn math facts, read to or with other students and adults, play educational board games or just spend time talking with each other before their school day begins, Timmerman said. Students also can eat breakfast.

"It gets their day started off on the right foot," she said. "The kids feel more positive and you really see a difference in class."

Fifth-grader Alyssa Sinkule said the extra time she spends on homework before the school day starts has helped with her classes.

"It gives you a chance to figure out assignments," she said.

Her friend, Natalie Dillon, who also is in fifth-grade, said she uses the time to make sure her homework is finished and talk to other students if she has a question about an assignment.

Kaylee Rule, also in fifth grade, said she comes to Prime Time to work on homework and also to talk to other students in not only her grade but in others.

It's not unusual to see older students helping younger ones with their reading or math assignments. Younger students who want to improve their reading skills can easily find someone older to help them practice their reading skills.

Students from kindergarten to fifth grade are welcome, Timmerman said.