DOWNEY — Downey Foundation for Educational Opportunities (DFEO) announces the launch of educational and enrichment after school programs beginning the next school year in August 2021.

Downey Unified School District has contracted DFEO to manage the After School Education and Safety (ASES) Grant starting July 1, 2021. This comes after the announcement of the conclusion of the city’s ASPIRE program on June 30, 2021. 

"I want to give our sincerest thanks to the City of Downey for running the ASPIRE program for the last 20 years," said Superintendent John A. Garcia, Jr., Ph.D. "The sunsetting of our agreement with the City on June 30, 2021 gave us an opportunity to reevaluate our after school offerings for our students. Given DFEO's success managing after school classes since 2017, we felt it was a good opportunity for the Foundation to take over the ASES Grant administration and mirror their programs with current enrichment offerings to expand before and after school opportunities for our students." 

“We are thrilled about the opportunity to provide broader after school opportunities. DFEO's programs will include indoor and outdoor activities that include a daily nutrition, fitness, tutoring, and enrichment component. What's most exciting about this partnership is expanding the access that students will have to the Arts, College Prep, and Health and Fitness activities; imagine dance classes, visual arts, soccer, basketball, music classes, theater and even homework assistance,” said DFEO Executive Director, Sheila Tetangco-Bartolone. 

Families enrolled in the current after school program will be able to pre-register through DFEO. DFEO is looking to increase the capacity of the after school enrichment programs for more families to participate. The grant will subsidize the cost for families most in need. As always, DFEO will offer need-based scholarships for students and families who request assistance in order to participate. 

The Downey Foundation for Educational Opportunities is a nonprofit organization that supports the Downey Unified School District’s vision that all students graduate with a 21st Century education that ensures they are college and career ready, globally competitive, and citizens of strong character. 

Additional details will be released in April, with registration beginning in May. For more information, visit DFEO.org and subscribe to their newsletter.