An average of 175 children turned out per day for Opp City Schools’ first ever summer feeding program.

OCS Child Nutrition Director Heather Short said she was pleased with the results of this year’s program and said school officials were already discussing how to make it more effective and draw more children for next summer.

“It was a big success with our athletes and our summer program,” she said. “It was open for all kids through the age of 18. We had a good mix of children. The coaches were thrilled.”

Short said some ideas they are currently tossing around include renovating the old South Highlands Elementary School cafeteria to make it more accessible for more children.

“We really want to get more of our captured kids,” she said. “Renovating the old South Highlands Elementary cafeteria will make the program more community friendly. We want to draw more of the community.”

Short said Superintendent Michael Smithart is looking at grants the system can get to restore the building.

The program ran from June 1 through July 16, and Short said some days they saw more than the 175 children.