Beyond the Classroom: Inside After School at the Y
From the start, our After School program set out to provide Greenwich public school students in need with the care and attention they deserve beyond school hours. Now, in its second year, the program has vibrantly blossomed in its dedication to the holistic development of local youth.
At the heart of this initiative are the Y’s four core values—caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. These values shape every activity and interaction, fostering a positive culture where students learn to support one another and take pride in their community.
"Every day, I watch our students conquer homework assignments with greater ease, learn new skills in activity workshops, and cultivate friendships across socio-economic boundaries," said Camp & Childcare Director Julia Borges. "With over a decade of experience in youth recreation and enrichment, I have never felt as much fulfillment in my work as I do at the Y."
The After School program follows the Greenwich Public School academic calendar, running Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. It serves local elementary students from kindergarten through fifth grade, with flexible attendance options for two, three, or five days a week. Convenient, direct bus transportation is also provided from nearby schools, including Hamilton Avenue, New Lebanon, Julian Curtiss, Cos Cobb, North Street, Glenville, and Parkway.
Students benefit from personalized homework assistance from our trained staff, ensuring they stay on track with their studies while building a strong foundation for future learning. Beyond academics, our program facility helps students explore a variety of enrichment activities, including the arts, STEM, and staying active in our popular tumble room. Collaborative partnerships with local organizations like Greenwich United Way Reading Champions, MakeInspires, and the Greenwich Library further enhance the program by providing additional resources and opportunities for growth.
Our students are thriving, with 83% reporting to have learned a new skill or activity, 87% stating they’re happier since they started attending the program, 93% have made new friends, and 100% have fun in the program.
"My daughter loves the afterschool program," one parent said in a recent survey. "The teachers are great with sharing feedback and we love some of the events that are organized for the kids."
Parents or guardians can register their children through Active Net. To complete the process, they must submit a Health Assessment Record form along with immunization records and, if applicable, an Authorization for the Administration of Medication form. Registration will be confirmed once all necessary documents are submitted. Payments for the program occur monthly, with automatic discounts available for YMCA members.
Every child deserves a safe, enriching after-school experience, no matter the family’s financial situation. We welcome all local families to enroll. Our team is ready to offer support throughout the Financial Aid Application process, whether by phone, email or in person.
The Y is committed to nurturing the potential of every child and teen. From cradle to career, the Y empowers young people to lead inspired, successful lives. For more information about all of our youth programs at our Y, please visit greenwichymca.org/programs/youth.