After School

The Zones provides academic programming in STEM, literacy, history, and other core subjects – though we believe that learning is most effective when it’s experiential. That’s why we offer a range of activities that go beyond your standard syllabus.

Every day, members can choose between 3D printing, filmmaking, robotics, coding, and more. We also partner with schools, parents, and community organizations to provide educational experiences that aren’t offered in school. Additionally, our ZIP (Zone In Program) offers homework help and one-on-one tutoring with accredited volunteers.

All of our courses are designed to spark members' interest, stoke their curiosity, and ignite a passion for learning that carries over to the classroom. In fact, our members show improved performance in math and language skills, as well as greater classroom engagement.

Research shows that art programming has a profound impact on student well-being and academic performance. Participation in such programs can boost test scores, improve school attendance, increase graduation rates, and expedite mathematics and literacy development (Heath, Soep, & Roach, 2017).

Unfortunately, a focus on standardized testing and a decline in school art budgets has deprived many students of creative outlets.

The Zones seeks to bridge the gap with creative and performing art programs that inspire young people to grow and thrive. We offer activities like painting, drawing, and crafts as well as courses in dance, music, and theater through our community partnerships.

Through creative expression, our members learn valuable social and emotional skills – not to mention how to let their imaginations run wild!

Physical activity is vital for a young person's development because it lays the foundation for a healthy, active lifestyle.

With a focus on good sportsmanship and fun, our athletic program gives members the opportunity to try new sports like pickleball, indoor hockey, or rock climbing. Simultaneously, these group activities allow members to practice teamwork, develop communication skills, enhance motor skills, and build self-confidence. Regardless of your child’s fitness level, all members are welcome and encouraged to play in a positive, cooperative environment.

The Zones also conducts sports camps and leagues throughout the year in collaboration with community organizations and volunteers.

Studies show that health education programs play a key role in reducing risky health behaviors and preventing or delaying the onset of chronic disease in adulthood. That’s why we collaborate with several community partners to bring our members informative, educational, and engaging wellness programs to promote physical and mental health.

Our health & wellness programs range from acupressure for stress management to dental screenings, oral health education to hands-only CPR. Yet all of our programs promote physical activity, healthy habits, and risk prevention.

Additionally, we believe that a healthy mind is just as important to a child's development as a healthy body. The Zones staff are strong advocates for mental and emotional health, so we can work closely with parents to provide families with supportive mental health interventions and treatments when necessary.

Some things cannot be learned in books. Our life skills and workforce readiness zone teaches youth how to set and achieve goals, resolve conflicts, communicate effectively, and solve problems.

Our practical, hands-on approach promotes social-emotional learning and interpersonal relationships to prepare youth for the workplace, all while giving them the competence and confidence to thrive wherever life takes them.

We also collaborate with community partners to host themed educational weeks such as Around the World or Career Week. These events are vital to introduce our members to new cultures and traditions, teach them to respect and celebrate the differences in all people, and open their eyes to the wealth of opportunities available to them.

The evidence shows that Zones members are more likely to gain self-efficacy, attain greater academic achievements, and develop better work habits.