Overview
Keys School has a long tradition of providing before and after school care for our students. Our philosophy has remained the same over time: Keys children live fast-paced lives. They need respite, down-time, continuity, and a safe place to play. Extended care provides time to have a snack, do
some homework, read a book, explore art & craft materials, learn a new game or just daydream, giggle with friends, and chase butterflies.
Our first priority is safety. The extended care program provides a familiar place and a staff who engage and support students as individuals. We recognize that some students need quiet and others need to blow off steam. Students also have supervised access to the computer lab and library.
Program Details
Time: End of school until 6:00 pm
(All students on campus at 3:30 MUST check into After School.)
Fee Schedule:
Monthly contract: $2,500 per year, Billed monthly ($250)
Drop in: $10 until 4:30 pm, $20 until 6:00 pm
Staff Introductions
After School Director
Amy Bucher has over 6 years experience working in after school programs. In addition to directing Keys School's program, she has also worked as Summer Camp Director at the Sequoia YMCA. A certified high school English teacher, she graduated from Guilford College in Greensboro NC. She has lived and worked in various countries, including two years teaching elementary students in Japan.
Organization
After School follows a consistent basic schedule. Activities are organized along a guiding theme each week. Within this schedule there is time for active play as well as quiet rest. Space is given for imaginative free play, as well as structured group activities. Those students needing time to complete homework will be given space at any time throughout the afternoon. Activities are planned and altered to meet the needs of all ages of Keys students, from Kindergarten to 8th grade.
Sample Schedule
(See a Sample Schedule here
)
Homework Time
Homework is ALWAYS an optional activity. Students who need to complete homework during After School can do so at ANY time. Activities and programs are planned for those students who do not have or do not wish to do homework.
In order to provide students with quiet study space, the Library is available every Tuesday from 3:30-4:30. During the winter months we also use the Spanish room as an additional quiet study space. If you would like your child to complete most of their homework during After School, then please let us know so that we can more closely monitor their progress.
Computer Lab Visits
After School visits the Computer Lab once a week. Students who have projects or homework to do on the computer can complete them during this time. Other students work on computer activities relating to the theme such as educational games or artistic programs. This is also a time for students to practice typing skills from their computer class. After School also tries to accommodate opening the computer lab to students needing to complete computer projects on other days. Advance notice should be given in these situations.
Library Visits
After School goes to the Keys School Library once a week. Often, a story relating to the theme is read aloud. This is also time when students can check out/return books, study quietly, or read. The librarian is available at this time if students have any questions or need help. The computers are available for students who need to work on homework or school projects. Reading and time for quiet are important in After School, so books relating to each unit are available every day for students to read during free times.
Free Choice Fridays
Fridays are free choice days! Before snack the art room or outside playground area are set up for students to play a game or do an activity of their choice. After snack After School may go to the park for continued free play time. Children who want to have a play date with a friend, often come to After School on Fridays.
