Program Components
Learning takes place in various formats and design. After school programs are rich with educational opportunities to make what is learned during the traditional day vibrant and relevant. Our program seeks to create connections with the curriculum offered by the day school However, we do not want to duplicate or repeat it.
Educational Enrichment (top)
Children will have opportunities to choose from a variety of academic enhancement activities and projects both indoors and outdoors. These activities may include arts and crafts, recreation, computers, character education or clubs.
Academic Support (top)
The Learning Center will provide a quiet space and time for participants to work on their homework each day. During homework time, participants will have the opportunity to start and hopefully complete their assignments.
Young people primarily work alone on their assignments and have tutors or counselors there to guide and assist as necessary. Participants are asked to bring a couple of books to school to read during homework time if their complete their work early. Homework time should be a quiet time for academic activities.
Each day time is set aside for homework. Counselors provide homework support in small groups.
Staff members bring fresh energy and unique activities to the program. Together, these committed people created a diverse web of support for students
Youth Development (top)
A very important component of our program is the activities which support youth development. Getting along with others, living and playing by the rules, developing friendships, respecting and helping others are things we all must learn in the every day context of being with people
The lessons of social competence come hour by hour day by day in activities which focus on relationships
Team Building (top)
And personal growth experiences. All of our students will participate in an adventure learning program. This program helps children develop social and emotional competences. Occasionally, this is done in the context of an outdoor or physically challenging activity.
Community Service (top)
Off-site activities
Learning Center activities may include field trips. Permission for field trips is given by parents and guardians on the participant’s registration form, though they will be notified in advance about details of the trips.
Community Involvement
The community comes to the school through numerous community partnerships. Area colleges support the tutor/mentors who work with our student. Staff members bring fresh energy and unique activities to the program. Together, these committed people created a diverse web of support for students
Recreational Programming (top)
Our recreational programs contribute to fitness and health and serve as an opportunity for our students to develop social skills.
Swim time at Stafford Middle School and the Plattsburgh YMCA will include recreational swim and lessons. Participants and their families will be notified of scheduled swim times and given opportunity to sign up. Swim group sizes are limited, depending on transportation available. Participants must have their suits on a swimming day; they will not be allowed to call home to have someone bring in their suits.
Parent and Family Involvement (top)
We encourage all parents/family members to become involved with the 21st Century Learning Center. Daily contact between our staff and parents is an important part of the program. By sharing information concerning your child’s activities and welfare, we can work together to better meet the child’s needs. It is extremely important that any change in address, emergency numbers, etc. be kept current.
Newsletters are sent home to keep parents informed of upcoming events, programs and activities. Conferences with the staff can be arranged by parent or staff as needed. Family members are encouraged to visit the program and to share their special talents, skills and experiences with the children.
Thorough-out the year parent/family workshops will be offered. Parents are encouraged to attend at least 2 parent/family workshops per school year. These workshops are typically held following the program or in the evening. Topics will vary throughout the year. We encourage you to participate in the selection and development of these workshops.