Looking Back: Fall 2011-Winter 2012 with the Youth Program.
As the 2011-2012 school year approached, we at the Gloria J. Parks Afterschool Program began planning exciting activities and events for our youth. As Fall yielded to Winter, we began to realize that we had not shared any of the excitement with our online community. Please forgive us, as we catch you up on what’s been going on with the youth department in 2011-2012.
September 2011
While the school year got underway, we all enjoyed getting to know one another. We settled into our basic routine; computer/free time, snack, homework, enrichment activities, and then more computer/free time. We also got to know a few students from local universities, each volunteering their time in different capacities. For us, September was all about growth and fusion.
Malik finishing up some homework.
Kenny logging some quality time with a few volunteers.
Michael hamming it up at the park.
October 2011
During the month of October, we enjoyed our first field trips. We went pumpkin/apple picking at Becker Farms, exploring at MCEER (an Earthquake Center based out of the University at Buffalo), and on a tour of the University at Buffalo, The State University of New York. We ended October with a Halloween party. Our party included a haunted hallway, murder mystery, science experiments, pizza, and (of course) candy. Overall, our October schedule was packed with entertainment and enjoyment.
Caleb giving us a look at his haul at the farm.
Some youth showing off their UB Bull pride!
Some of the youth in their fantastic Halloween costumes.
Executing the murder mystery!
November 2011
During November, we continued to operate under the basic schedule we formulated in September. During this time, we were able to really focus on our enrichment activities, making lasting memories. Our enrichment activities have included; Science, Group Games, Art, Break Dancing, Flag Football, Unicycle, Floor Hockey, and Basketball.
Miss Mildrene instructing the youth during an art class.
The youth participating in a scavenger hunt with Miss Erika during Group Games.
December 2011
During December 2011, we were able to add a new member to our Afterschool staff through Americorps. Our new addition, Miss Kelly, wrote about December break here.
January 2012
As the new year began, we found ourselves reinvigorated. We entered the year happy, positive and looking forward to all that the future had to offer us…
February 2012
The highlight of February thus far has been our Valentine’s Day party. But we know there is more excitement around the corner. We are currently planning for February Recess. We are planning for a full 10:00am-6:00pm schedule. We’ve even been able to find time for a trip to the Albright-Knox Art Gallery (of which we will be sure to share all the details!).
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So far, the 2011-2012 school year has been good to us. We are a pretty tight knit group these days, and we share a good potion of the weekday together. As we plan more activities, we will be sure to keep our corner of the web updated so you can share in our enjoyment.
*If you would like more information about the Gloria J. Parks Afterschool Program, please contact us here.