Enrichment Programs:
Summer:
Summer Programs Overview
We are committed to providing engaging, innovative learning experiences for children. Our Summer Programs are designed to introduce participants to new opportunities and activities that build on the skills they develop during the school year.
These programs follow a structured six-week schedule with planned, sequential activities. Please note that they are not drop-in programs.
Who We Serve?
Summer Programs are open to Springfield residents ages 6 to 13. Children must turn 6 by July 1, 2026, and may not turn 14 before July 2, 2026, to be eligible to participate.
Days of Operation
- Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Wednesday, July 1, 2026 – Friday, August 7, 2026
- Closed Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of Independence Day
Daily Schedule:
- Drop-off: 8:30 AM – 8:40 AM (children arriving after 8:40 AM will not be admitted)
- Pick-up: 2:45 PM – 3:00 PM (children must be picked up by 3:00 PM or will result in disciplinary action)
Program Sites
- Camp Star Summer Program – 300 Trafton Road, Springfield, MA 01108
- Kiley Summer Program – 180 Cooley Street, Springfield, MA 01128
- Van Sickle Summer Program – 1435 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104
- Forest Park (ECOS) Summer Program – 293 Sumner Avenue, Springfield, MA 01108
Program Cost
The Summer Enrichment Programs are offered at no cost to families.
Registration
All Summer Program registration is completed online. Visit https://www.springfield-ma.gov/park/ and select the Online Registration page for full details and instructions. Required documents must be submitted before the program begins.
Program Highlights
Our programs offer a wide range of enriching, hands-on experiences, including:
- Project-Based Learning – Interactive activities aligned with English Language Arts standards
- The Arts – Creative projects that build communication skills, self-expression, and confidence
- Fitness & Health – Activities that combine movement, math, nutrition, and healthy habits
- Educational Games & Small-Group Learning – Engaging ways to reinforce academic skills
- Daily Reading Time – Approximately 20 minutes each day to promote literacy and a love of reading. A variety of books are available at each site, and children may also bring books from home. Participants who choose not to read will engage in quiet activities such as journaling.
- Sports & Recreation – Opportunities to participate in basketball, soccer, lacrosse, tennis, swimming, yoga, and more
- Character Development – Emphasis on teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership, academic growth, and goal setting
- Health & Science Exploration – Hands-on learning about nutrition, ecosystems, animals, plants, insects, and microorganisms
- Outdoor Adventures – Nature walks and exploratory activities throughout the summer
Meals
Breakfast and lunch are provided daily at no cost to participants through our partnership with Home Grown Springfield (formerly Sodexo).
Meal accommodations can be made based on dietary needs indicated during registration. For example, if a child has an allergy (such as tuna fish), an alternative meal will be provided on days when that item is served.
Program | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Forest Park (ECOS) Summer Program | Randy Piteo, Educational Coordinator Phone: (413) 750-2711 Email: rpiteo@springfieldcityhall.com |
| Kiley Summer Program | Carmen Melendez, Program Coordinator Cell: (413) 426-5639 Email: cmelendez@springfieldcityhall.com |
| Van Sickle Summer Program | Angela Parisi, Program Coordinator Cell: (413) 355-6229 Email: aparisi@springfieldcityhall.com |
| Camp STAR Summer Program | Lena Cisero, Camp Director Cell: (413) 313-5457Office: (413) 787-7779 Email: lcisero@springfieldcityhall.com |
Afterschool:
Afterschool Programs Overview
Our Afterschool Programs provide students with a variety of engaging, safe, and hands-on activities that support learning beyond the school day. After school, enrolled students can go directly to the program, where they will enjoy a nutritious snack and drink.
Program Schedule:
- Dates: Monday, October 27, 2025 – May 2026
- Days & Times: Monday through Thursday, 3:30 – 5:50 p.m.
- Dismissal: Begins at 5:30 p.m. Late fees may apply.
Program Sites:
- Bowles Elementary School
- DeBerry Elementary School
- Dryden Elementary School
Registration:
- Online registration is now closed (as of March 2026)
- Important: Children must be enrolled at one of these schools to participate in the program.
- Visit our Online Registration page for full details.
Program Highlights:
The Parks and Recreation Division's Afterschool Programs are led by trained staff and focus on supporting academic growth, creativity, and physical well-being through a variety of activities, including:
- Homework Support – Limited academic assistance to help students stay on track.
- Project-Based Learning – Hands-on educational activities aligned with English Language Arts standards.
- The Arts – Creative projects that promote communication skills, self-expression, and confidence.
- Fitness & Health – Physical activities that integrate movement, math, nutrition education, and healthy habits.
- Educational Games & Small-Group Activities – Fun, interactive ways to reinforce classroom learning.
These programs aim to build students’ skills, values, and self-confidence, helping them thrive both in school and in everyday life.
Program Quality & Evaluation
All program sites meet local school department, state, and federal reporting requirements. Regular assessments are conducted throughout the year to evaluate program effectiveness and address the individual needs of participants.
Have questions? Give the Recreation Office a call at 413-787-6434.
Afterschool Program Sites & Contacts
Bowles Elementary – 24 Bowles Park, Springfield, MA 01104
Site: (413) 335-5381 | Coordinator: Carmen Melendez, (413) 426-5639, CMelendez@springfieldcityhall.com
Dryden Elementary – 190 Surrey Rd, Springfield, MA 01118
Site: (413) 335-1466 | Coordinator: Angela Parisi, (413) 355-6229, aparisi@springfieldcityhall.com
DeBerry School – 670 Union St, Springfield, MA 01109
Site: (413) 313-6333 | Coordinator: Lena Cisero, (413) 313-5457, lcisero@springfieldcityhall.com
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