This article is brought to you by the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
Selecting the right after-school care program is pivotal for many parents hoping to provide their children with a secure and enriching environment while they are at work. Debbie Degollado, the Vice President of Youth Development at the YMCA of Greater San Antonio, recognizes this importance and elaborates on how the YMCA’s After-School Care program has engaged students in enjoyable activities and provided vital academic support for the last 40 years.
The Origins of the YMCA After-School Care Program
“The Y has been offering after-school programs for four decades, dating back to 1983,” Degollado explains. “Our director at the time, Sallie Luedke, identified a growing need within the community. Parents and guardians had to work, leaving what were then termed ‘latch-key kids’ at home alone. Consequently, we initiated a few programs in collaboration with the Judson and North East school districts. A year later, I joined the team, and over the years, this initiative has blossomed into a substantial after-school program.”
What Sets the YMCA After School Care Program Apart?
Discussing what distinguishes the YMCA After School Care program from others, Degollado emphasizes their core values. “From the program’s inception, our primary objective was to offer high-quality, affordable care and support to our families; ensuring there was a safe place for their children to go after school,” she says. “All our programs are conveniently located on school campuses, eliminating the need for additional transportation. Our work gives parents peace of mind, enabling them to continue to focus on their own work or education during out-of-school hours.”
The program includes academic support for homework and reading, snack time, arts and crafts, STEM activities, and group games. Degollado highlights that the San Antonio School District reports indicate that students participating in their after-school programs exhibit improved academic performance and score higher on tests.
Moreover, the YMCA After School Care program adheres to state licensing regulations, ensuring rigorous monitoring and audits of staff files. “For us, this represents an extra layer of safety and oversight, and ensures that our programs operate with the utmost propriety,” Degollado affirms.
Current Reach and Staffing
In terms of their current reach, Degollado says that they are serving approximately 4,000 students, thus maintaining a commendable 1:15 staff-to-child ratio. The program has expanded to encompass 68 programs for after-school care, primarily in elementary schools, but with a growing presence in middle schools. Their footprint extends across San Antonio, New Braunfels, Schertz, Cibolo, Boerne, and La Vernia, and even includes partnerships with select private charter schools.
Staff Training and Development
The YMCA After School Care program takes staff training seriously. “All our staff members are CPR certified and equipped with first aid training,” Degollado mentions. “They are required to undergo a minimum of 20 hours of training annually, covering a wide range of topics including developmental stages, guidance and discipline, child abuse prevention, and engaging group games and STEM activities.”
The After School Care program actively collaborates with colleges and universities to recruit staff. It is an excellent part-time job opportunity for those pursuing education majors. Many staff members continue with the YMCA until they secure student-teacher positions and transition into teaching full time.
Scholarship Opportunities for All
Degollado underscores the program’s commitment to accessibility. “We want our programs to be available to everyone, so we offer scholarships to families who may not be able to afford the program or provide reduced rates,” she explains. Families have the option to apply for scholarships online or in person. The YMCA aims to ensure every child’s opportunities despite any financial constraints.
The YMCA’s After School Care program is not merely an after-school program; it’s a cornerstone of support, education, and enrichment for the community’s children. In these challenging times, it provides a haven where children can have fun, build friendships, and find comfort, ultimately preparing them for a brighter future.
For those interested in learning more about the YMCA After School Care program or contributing to sending a child to After-School Care, please visit ymcasatx.org. All proceeds go towards assisting families in accessing high-quality childcare services.
