Our after school program was opened because of a real need within low-income communities. The program gives structure to students with working parents and adopts a holistic approach to learning. We want our students to be socially engaged, physically and emotionally cared for. Its also a haven for at risk students, helping to build their confidence and self esteem. Older kids that are part of our program are much less likely to fall in with the wrong crowd. Most importantly many of our parents have no formal education or have only received primary school level and we play a pivotal role by offering that extra education assistance.
We strive to maintain a fun, interactive, and inclusive learning environment where our students always have a sense of belonging. In this sense, the school reinforcement and support program is based on the following principles: Empowerment, active participation, equality, equity, quality of education and inclusion.
Curriculum
We focus on four main areas in the development of our curriculum, the arts, literacy, science and physical education.
- The arts: Some of the supplies we keep at hand are craft tables with paint brushes, blank canvasses, paper, pencils, crayons, scissors, glitter and glue. The emphasis is on individuality and being able to work at your own pace.
- Literacy: Our teachers together with the help from our volunteers, read to the children and they children read level appropriate books out loud. We provide academic support through homework assistance and reinforcing sociability and cultural norms.
- Science: The joys of discovery can give children a great sense of accomplishment. This is developed through simple science experiments. Projects that show case renewable energy and demonstrate things like surface tension are some of the most popular at our school.
- Physical Education: A growing mind goes hand in hand with a healthy growing body. We partake in a number of fun and engaging physical activities like dance, drama, hopscotch, musical chairs scavenger hunts, soccer, and so much more.
Your Involvement
- Donations of school supplies. This goes without saying that we´re always in need of school supplies. Having an assortment of teaching tools and supplies allows us to offer a more dynamic and success learning experience.
- Time: Having more volunteers on site means the children can have more one-on-one care and attention. The creativity and energy volunteers bring into our school is priceless, leaves a lasting impression and life long memories.
