The Mission of the School Age Program is to provide a stimulating setting where children can explore, develop, and learn in a safe and secure environment at their own pace. The School-Age Program has been accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA). This national recognition shows our commitment to quality and continuous program improvement. The philosophy of the School-Age Program is based on the belief that all children are strong, powerful and competent individuals who are constantly learning and growing. The mission of the program is to provide a stimulating environment where children can explore, develop and learn at their own pace. Additionally, it is to provide a child-centered program in a warm, secure environment with love and good physical care. Each child has unique abilities that will be recognized and nurtured. The school-age program offers a wide range of physical as well as quiet activities. An indoor gym and an outside area are available as daily choices for physical activities. A library room offers an appealing area to finish schoolwork. A “Discovery Room” provides a place to explore new interest areas. Our creative art room allows children to be creative and express themselves through art. An “Almost-Grown Zone” offers programs for ages 9 to 12 and have a chartered B&G “Torch Club” with 15 active members. The staff completes activity plans weekly with input from the children. The school-age program offers childcare before school beginning at 6:00 a.m. to 7:20 a.m., at which time they are taken to school. After school care begins at 2:30 p.m. and closes at 6:00 p.m., transportation is provided for a small fee, or children nine and older are welcome to walk. On teacher workdays the center provides all-day care from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. During spring, winter and summer break the center offers all day care filled with a variety of activities and field trips. A USDA approved breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack are provided daily. School-age fees are based on combined family income and can be determined at time of registration.
The Youth Center can accommodate approximately 120 children ages 5-12 in the School Age Program. We offer a diverse activity schedule to meet the needs and interests of Shaw's youth. The center is equipped with a gymnasium, outdoor basketball court and playground, art studio, and a variety of activity rooms.
The Youth Annex located in the 5000 Housing Area provides activities for Tweens (ages 9-12) and Teens (ages 13-18). The center also operates The Youth Sports Complex located on the far side of the flight line by the FamCamp.
