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The Children's Aid Society Program Description P.S. 50 is an elementary school in East Harlem with severe needs for additional academic, enrichment, violence prevention and health services. The Children's Aid Society (CAS) has twelve years of experience in developing, implementing and evaluating community school programs, with twelve schools in New York, and hi providing technical assistance to like-minded organizations nationally. CAS began a small after-school program at P.S. 50 in 2001 and plans to continue its dramatic expansion during the 2004-2005 academic year. This year, a project-rich, literacy and arts focused after-school program will be offered to 250 students. The program will include educational and recreational opportunities that enhance what children are experiencing during the school day. It will also include two curricula that foster the development of children's literacy and math skills and will focus on conflict resolution and violence prevention. The after-school program will provide a safe environment for children from 2:50-5:50pm each day and the additional time hi school will allow for daily homework help, arts opportunities and tutoring. Research shows that by offering children enriching activities and supportive youth development programs during the after-school hours, high-risk behaviors may be reduced and positive behavior may be promoted.1 Additionally, the Site Director has participated in behavior guidance training focusing on helping children develop self-management and conflict resolution skills. The principles of this training will be incorporated into the program.2 In addition, sports, exercise, and recreational activities will be included. These programs have been cut from the school's academic day and offer a healthy outlet for the energy and aggression of children. We will also bring parents into the school by creating a parent center in the school, involving them as volunteers and paid counselors, and providing workshops that will empower them to take a more active role hi their children's education. 1 Carnegie Corporation of New York. A Matter of Time: Risk & Opportunity in the Non-School Hours, New York, 1992. 2 Principles are based on research by Mary Steiner Whelan in her book But they Spit, Scratch and Swear, A-ha! Communications, Minneapolis, MN, 2000. ***Program Sites*** P.S. 50 Contact: Robert Aguirre, Chief Executive Director |