Back to School: Citywide after-school programs

Students are ready to settle into their new classrooms, teachers and lockers, but are they all set up for after-school programs?
Andre Maragh is about to start another year at P.S. 50 and another year of going to the Compass after-school program run by the Children’s Aid Society.
"They love it, I love it, they're safe, I’m comfortable, it's an experience for them and I’m grateful," says Marcia Mole, Andre's mother.

At the Compass, children get to learn archery, animation, film, how to cook, play the drums, play sports, dance and even learn about different colleges through a march madness competition.

Learning, developing and getting ready for the future for the three hours after the school day is done.

There are hundreds of programs offered across the city through the NYC Department of Youth & Community Development.

“The Discover DYCD website is your best bet, because you can type in your zip code and find the best location to sign up for the program," says Liliana Candelario, program director at the Compass.

After-school programs begin Sept. 9, but parents can sign their children up for another week after that.