After School programs of the 21st Century

Story by Freddy Sanchez
Photos courtesy of Emily Sullivan

Offered at two schools in the Plattsburgh area, Arthur Momont Elementary school and Stafford Middle School, the 21st Century Community Learning Center specializes in exposure enrichment through academic improvement, arts, and parent education. Despite the evident need for such outlets of self expression that elevate youth potential, programs like 21st CCLC are nearly extinct; endangered by budget cuts and inadequate funding.

“I love painting. I’m going to be the second Divinci.”

The 21st Century Community Learning Center of the North Country helps to shape and enhance character in adolescents. It is a federally funded, out of school program made possible under the “No Child Left Behind” act. Geared toward children of low-performing schools and of low-income families, the program is offered in many states nationwide.  

“The 21st Century Learning Program is an outlet for children who can’t be successful during day school. They can be successful here, whether its through finishing a piece of art in ceramics class or finishing their homework,” says Diana Laverly, Project Coordinator and four year veteran of the program at Momont Elementary School.

The program also gives children an opportunity to explore different facets of learning. “We have them engage in disguised learning,” says Laverly. The methods of subliminal teaching are extremely effective for children as it provides some sort of instant gratification. Kimberlt Beckeman, senior art major at Plattsburgh State University and volunteer for the 21st Century learning program, says “ with art there’s an immediate reward when you finish a piece, where as with school work the reward takes longer to achieve.”   

“I see good things in the future of the 21st Century because of programs like ours”

Art facilitator for the 21st CCLC, Jackie Sabourin, understands the need for such programs and appreciates all that comes out of the 21st century, “I see good things in the future of the 21st Century because of programs like ours,” she says. “Giving every child the chance to feel better, expressing themselves in different and positive ways, and learning to live with others of all types of personalities and abilities.”

21st Century Community learning centers offer children access to opportunities they would otherwise not have. Beckeman says “I remember in our last class a student said ‘we can go to gym any day, when don always get to play with clay.’” Noah Fredrick, a 10 year old participant of the program, says ““I love painting. I’m going to be the second Divinci.”

Children who participate in the program grow to love and appreciate it as did Sabourin. The 21st CCLC is awaiting a decision that will determine if the program will continue to exist in the coming years as this June marks the end of the program’s four-year federal grant. “I am awaiting next week's determination with intrepedation.” says Sabourin. If the program is lost I will be very disappointed for the kids and for the agencies who have worked so hard to make this a reality and such a success.”

Laverly mentions an alternative to the program that will be instituted if the 21st CCLC doesn’t receive federal funding. The alternative she is referring to is an after school recreational program; a rec center that will offer half of the amenities that the 21st century Learning program provides, essentially functioning as a day care center.

“We ask parent to give a donation from $5 to $25, to the 21st Century Learning Program,” say Laverly. If plans for a rec center fall through, due to a failed grant, that small optional donation is gone. Instead parents will have to fork over more cash to have their children looked after while loosing the services designed for academic achievement.

In essence programs such as the 21st century aren’t all arts and crafts, their services succeed in complimenting the regular academic program. “I see that they (children) are all doing the same types of activities, creating, learning, and, cooperating with each other on an equal level. How much more can you ask for as a child who is often, more than often, feeling alone and different,” says Sabourin.

Have you ever heard of the 21st Century Community Learning Center?