Nearly 300 Middletown kids who need extra help during the summer won't get it this year, and the superintendent blames red tape.

Middletown Superintendent Ken Eastwood says the state Education Department unexpectedly denied the grant Middletown usually gets to cover the $300,000 cost of summer school. He applied for another grant, but was told no deal last week.

According to state officials, the public process and the 30-day comment period were sidestepped in the application process.

"It's all about filling out paperwork," says Eastwood. "It's not about what's best for kids. It's ridiculous is what it is."

Parents and students agree. Lesla Calix is scrambling to find tutors or other programs for her three children. Besides summer camps, Eastwood recommends YMCA or Montessori School programs.

Meanwhile, young Collette Martel plans to hit the library instead. "I [need] more help in math and social studies."