Since 2001, the CARES program (which stands for Children Afterschool Recreation and Education for Success) has worked to ensure that no child is left behind at Kempsville Elementary School. The goals of this program are to help achieve academic success, build self-confidence in students through a nurturing environment, provide a safe after school environment for students, and give them positive feedback. Teachers select twelve first and second grade students, who are transported to the Community United Methodist Church after school one day a week. At the church, students get a snack, outside time, and one on one tutoring. Students are closely matched to their mentor, and develop close bonds with them. Students blossom in this program, and both parents and teachers report marked improvement in academic achievement. It's clear that this partnership truly CARES about Kempsville students!