Chipley, FL- Students in Washington County now have another option after the final bell rings for the school day.

"Hopefully the atmosphere will be one of learning and fun," said Washington County School Superintendent Sandra Cook.

Cook was talking about the district's new after-school program. It runs Mondays through Thursdays this semester and is open to everyone from the elementary school level to high school level.

"It'll be a matter for our students to be able to get some extra help," said Cook.

The district has had programs like this before, but what's different this time around is there will be an emphasis on math and science.

"When you deal with STEM, that's exactly what the focus is is math and science. We're definitely having a strong push within the schools to be able to do more science activities and bring the relevance of science to that student," said Cook.

Experts said at any age programs like this are crucial for a student's academic development.

"There is no doubt in my mind anytime that you can put students in where they can get more instruction on the material, it's going to help them. It's going to help improve their grade, their scores," said Chipley High School Guidance Counselor Tiffany Mckinney.

And the best part parents? It's doesn't cost you anything.

"Because it is implementing and working with math and science, that is how the funding was able to be secured for through Title One, through STEM specifically," said Cook.

Although the district didn't have specific enrollment numbers, it estimated about thirty students per school will take part. Parents with questions should contact their child's school for more information.