It was late into the day for Junior High School I.S 141, but the Beacon office remained open, and a few kids roamed around, and distracted themselves with computers, while others played with baby hamsters. This after school program dedicated to youth development has been around for a while and it provides a sanctuary for these children. Here, they spend their days playing instruments, learning dances, playing sports, taking art classes, and getting homework help.
Although the program offers great educational classes, it has some improvements to make. The few computers they have are outdated. The program is strictly for 1st grade through 8th grade, and on average about a hundred kids come everyday, but there are over eight hundred in the system, so class space is limited, and many kids are left out.
“As of right now the program is doing alright, but we could be affected by the budget cuts, but that won’t be seen until after the summer” said Tahir Arshad, the Beacon Coordinator. He expects some city cuts to affect the program, but assures they will try to alleviate it by getting federal funds and private grants. They do not accept money from parents and they are mostly government funded. Luckily, the new president, Barack Obama, signed the stimulus bill, which will give education an upper hand in the recession. Hopefully some of that will trickle down their way, and not get caught in a web of unnecessary spending. “Were trying to get more math and science programs, so the kids can improve their technical skills,” said Mr. Arshad
Beacon serves the community as a provider for academic and family support. Many parents work all day, and they are not able to pick up their children at 3pm, without this program many kids would be left stranded with little to do after school. “I would just stay home and watch TV like a couch potato,” Emily Via said, a 7th grader who has participated in the program for almost 2 years now.
Recently they started a new business class, where kids are taught how to sell products, and also saving techniques. They are planning an upcoming event, where kids can bring old and new items to sell to fellow Beacons kids and the rest of the student body. One of the beacon assistants is excited about this new endeavor, since it will teach the kids real world skills.
Early education is an essential part of a child’s development, without an adequate one, many are left unprepared for the advanced grades. Kids need to gain a variety of skills and talents to aid them in an ever changing world. The NYC Department of Youth Development & Community Development offers 80 Beacons programs around the city, as well as other youth programs.