Our newest campus, Riis Academy-P.S. 171 in Long Island City, Queens has been in operation for just over seven months now and we are proud of what has been accomplished so far.
The All Stars Advantage After School Program (AASP) at Riis Academy-P.S. 171 is located at 14-14 29th Avenue. Many of the school’s 600 students face obstacles that hinder their academic achievement. With this in mind, our program is designed to help students develop positive self-identity and leadership skills while strengthening their social, emotional, and academic skills.
Our program serves nearly 120 kids in grades K- 5 and gives them an opportunity to develop their reading skills and work together on fun and exciting projects focused on themes such as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), drama and music. Our creative program staff and AmeriCorps City Year volunteers are keeping the children engaged and motivated. During the month of December, students worked on holiday group art projects that were displayed in the cafeteria during the Winter Wonderland Party. Kindergarteners and first graders worked together on a performance of “Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer” for all the students and staff. During the month of February, second graders learned all about symmetry while making hearts and valentine cards and fifth graders completed week-long experiments demonstrating potential and kinetic energy. Students formed teams, constructed ramps and used basketballs to test kinetic energy and measure distance. The students learned that a ball rolling down a ramp that used the wall for support went further due to additional gravitational force.
Program Director, Nicole Kom is extremely happy with how well the program is progressing since its debut in September 2014. “We are very fortunate to have a great partner in the P.S. 171 administration. The principal, assistant principal and teachers have been extremely welcoming and supportive of us as we implement this new program. We look forward to refining and growing the program over the next four years and beyond.” Congratulations to all the staff at Riis Academy-P.S. 171 for a successful start – and welcome to the family!
