Magic Marks End to First Summer Services Program

The library at the Swampscott Middle School was packed with kids, moms and dads Friday morning, hanging on every word and every trick of magician Mike Bent.

Bent was in town to put on a show for the kids, parents and staff who took part in the first session of the

Bent did his first trick at age 6, and has been a professional magician since 1985. Bent performs under the banner of AbriKIDabra magic.

“Mike’s been at it since age six, just about the age of the kids who start our summer programs,” co-director Mary Powers said.

Powers and her team of teachers and support staff welcomed over 40 Swampscott kids to the first session of the program on July 5, the first session ended Friday.

“We still have spots in the second and third sessions,” Powers said. “Parents can still sign up their children for the second session, the third session or both, by calling me directly at 617-962-7155.”

The Integrated Summer Services Program works with a diverse group of children from all of Swampscott’s elementary schools. The mission of the program is to provide a supportive, nurturing, fun-filled experience to enhance the social and educational growth of Swampscott students.

The program is open to children entering the first grade, up to entering grade six.

The second session runs July 18 through July 29, while the third session starts on August 1 and runs through august 12.

“It’s very exciting to have Mike here wrapping up our Magic and Mystery theme of the first session,” Powers said. “We have spots open for the final two sessions, so I encourage parents to call and sign their children up.”

Session Two features and outer space theme, while session three will highlight physical fitness.

There are special events on each “Fun Friday” during the summer.