Entering the 23 – 24 school year, I cannot help but reflect on how much the Scholars’ programming has evolved. Since 2016, when I acquired the Program Director position, among other things, we have obtained state certification for the building, added to the staff-to-maintain ratio, worked with 359 children and 295 families, and implemented a robust afterschool curriculum. This has been no easy task, but has been attainable due to the incredible staff members who have worked with our scholars over the years. I am eternally grateful to our three program coordinators who have helped manage the curriculum staff and ensure the systematic and specific implementation of the programming vision.
In addition, the Southwest Arts and Technology Camp (SWAT) in 2020 only began with six scholars but has grown to serve 170 scholars as of the end of summer 2023. We have provided enrichment activities that bridge the summer learning loss; some of our scholars have never experienced field trips and a lifetime of friendships and memories. SWAT continues to grow and is positioned to become the premier summer camp in SW Philadelphia.
The 23 – 24 school year is off to an awesome start. We are small but mighty, with an average of 23 scholars daily. COVID has impacted the number of scholars we have recruited due to the transportation limitations of our program. This lively bunch has settled into the programming changes well. We have integrated the beginnings of our cultural portion into the curriculum with affirmation statements that start the day. We are moving from being a homework “factory” to a more holistic enrichment experience. The schedule has changed to increase art activities, and our scholars are enjoying the change with the addition of hydroponics (indoor and soilless gardening system).
There is still time to focus on homework, but our parents understand that is not the main focus of our programming moving forward. We are anticipating the addition of tutoring services and preparing for formal evaluative measures to move programming to the next level.
This year’s Fall Festival fell on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. The weather cooperated with us, although it was cold. Our festival partners, Representative’s MC Clinton and Harris’ office were responsible for the food, vendors, and bouncy houses donations; The 12th Police District was responsible for the DJ and dancing tunes; Salt and Light provided the decorations and candy donations; and TCP rounded things out with the games and face painting. An estimated 300 people enjoyed the festivities and participated in eating tons of candy!
On December 19, 2023, the scholars will have their annual holiday party. Scholars celebrate the holidays yearly with a catered meal, games, activities, and presents. We typically like to honor and acknowledge all of the traditions and cultural differences around this time, emphasizing Christian traditions. As part of the cultural additions to our curriculum, the December activities integrate aspects of learning about various traditions from around the world and from other religious backgrounds. We wish you all happy holidays and a happy new year!
