Springfield Recreation Division of the DPBRM Afterschool Programs provide participants with a broad array of fun, safe, hands-on educational and physical activities to support what they are learning during the school day. When students are dismissed at the end of the school day, they can report directly to the Afterschool Program where a nutritious snack and drink are provided.  Enrollment is limited and only students who have registered may attend.  There is no bus transportation.

The Parks and Recreation Division's Afterschool Programs are offered at the following schools:

Elementary School Programs:

DeBerry & Pottenger Elementary School

Monday through Thursday, Dismissal - 6:00 p.m.

21st CCLC Bowles Elementary School

Monday through Thursday, Dismissal - 6:00 p.m.

Program Description

The Parks and Recreation Division's Afterschool Programs provide homework help as well as project-based learning opportunities. All programs are led by trained staff. Children may participate in a variety of academic enrichment experiences that reinforce the school curriculum, including:

• Limited homework help
• Project-based learning experiences hands-on educational projects in English Language Arts
• The Arts – creative arts that build children’s communication skills, self-esteem and expression
• Fitness – physical activities in which children expend energy, learn math, explore nutrition, and develop healthy habits and lifestyles
• Educational games and other small-group learning experiences.

The afterschool programs assist students to build the skills, values and self confidence they need to succeed in school and their daily lives. In order to offer these afterschool programs, sites must meet  school department, state and federal reporting requirements. Throughout the year, periodical assessments are made to better meet the needs of individual children and to evaluate the program’s effectiveness.

Contact Information

Esther Alicea, Educational Coordinator — 313-1355 

Afterschool Program Coordinators

Channing Calcasola, 413-355-6229, Bowles Elementary School 21^st CCLC

Lena Cisero, 413-313-5457, Pottenger Elementary School

Gabriela Santiago, 413-426-5639, DeBerry Elementary School