After School Programs

ACE Program
“ACE” is an acronym that stands for After Class Enrichment at Westside Neighborhood School. The ACE program’s purpose is to provide affordable, high quality and reliable after-school care to the families of Westside Neighborhood School. Our top priority is the safe supervision of every child, but we also pride ourselves on providing an environment where students feel comfortable participating in enriching activities with their peers, the ACE staff, and the WNS faculty. ACE provides families with the peace of mind in knowing that we are committed to the furtherance of the school’s mission, which is to foster the social, emotional, and developmental growth of each child in a safe and caring environment. This is accomplished by offering freedom of choice and expression, a platform where students can practice positive conflict resolution techniques, and encourage close interpersonal relationships with peers, faculty, and staff.

ACE offers a variety of activities, projects, and classes that supplement and enhance the overall learning experience at WNS. We offer a structured and organized schedule for each of four age groups: DK and K, grades 1 and 2, grades 3 through 5, and grades 6 through 8. Students will enjoy story time, arts & crafts, a variety of enrichment activities, and organized games such as kickball, basketball and soccer. There will be times when different age groups interact during certain activities, but every activity will be age-appropriate.

ACE also supports classroom academics by offering Study Table Monday through Thursday for grades 1 through 3 and Homework Club for grades 4 through 8. Students can read, study, or do homework in a quiet classroom setting under the supervision and guidance of a WNS faculty member. On select days, students will also have the opportunity to enhance their technological skills in our child-friendly computer lab.

ACE Plus Program
The ACE program also offers a variety of exciting and enriching classes. We refer to these classes as “ACE Plus.” There are three eight-week sessions: fall, winter, and spring. Over the years ACE Plus classes have included tae-kwon-do, chess, yoga, guitar, Lego PlayTEK, afterschool rock, gymnastics, knitting, and dance. There is a separate cost for these classes. There is no charge for ACE while your child is participating in an ACE Plus class, but if he/she has not been picked up within fifteen minutes of their ACE Plus class dismissal, you will be billed using the ACE hourly rate.

The members of the ACE staff pledge to provide a safe and fun environment for all WNS students. We understand that enrolling in a new school, attending school for the first time, or coming to the new campus could be intimidating for both students and parents. Every effort will be made to help your child feel comfortable and secure as we welcome you to Westside Neighborhood School.

Shaheen Dhanji Director of ACE/ACE Plus Programs