The Sharon Springs Central School After School Program

Background

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schoharie County in partnership with Sharon Springs Central School and Middleburgh Central School was awarded the 21st Century Communities Learning Grant in the spring of 2004.  The result has been the creation of a fully licensed after-school child care program that must comply with the rules and regulations of the NYS Office of Children and Family Services. 

Activities:

The program operates under the 4H Philosophy of "learn by doing," and offers a broad range of interesting, age-appropriate activities that integrate what happens in the school day in less formal learning activities. The program also includes; indoor/outdoor recreation, arts and crafts, computer literacy, games and other related wellness activities.  In addition, special instruction opportunities are provided by school staff in Digital Photography and Piano Keyboarding.  Cultural exposure, conflict resolution skills, and community service are also part of the educational plan to provide academic enrichment opportunities and to instill life-long skills.

Each day, direct academic assistance is provided as part of the Homework Helper Program.  Cornell staff and SSCS teachers provide coverage in a room specifically set aside for homework completion.  Staff is on hand to answer questions and provide extra help for students if needed.  Parents should continue to check over the homework for neatness and accuracy and discuss the assignment with their child each night.

Other Information:

The program is open and free to children K-9  living in the district, including students that are home-schooled or attend private schools.  Space, however, is limited and there is currently a waiting list for the elementary program.

Students who take the late bus home will leave the program at 5:00.  All other students will be picked up at the program by a parent or guardian by 6:00.  If a parent is making a change to their child's dismissal, a written note should be sent in detailing the change.  If another adult is picking the child up,  that person should be listed on the Emergency Contact form, be aware of the code word, and be able to provide picture identification.