Five schools in east Bakersfield and Arvin have launched their first-ever summer school programs.

Sarah Brooks-Adams with the Kern County Superintendent of Schools says they want to make sure lower income kids aren’t left behind and will offer hands-on lessons in science, technology, engineering, math, and the arts.

The program runs through July at Bear Mountain Elementary, Haven Drive Middle, Edison Middle, Shirley Lane Elementary, and Virginia Avenue Elementary schools.

Kelli Pierce