Ross’ Story

Ross, a former student at SCO’s Westbrook Preparatory School, is a motivated and engaging young man who has Asperger syndrome. “I’m actually different from many people with Asperger’s in that I’m a very social guy,” says Ross. “On the other hand, sometimes I am unaware of other people’s feelings. I can be impulsive, and I do get overwhelmed. ”

Ross had difficulty adapting at his previous public school due to these challenges. However, Westbrook’s residential school setting gave Ross the opportunity to work on his social skills and develop strategies to help him avoid feeling overwhelmed.

One key element of life at Westbrook is the internship program. While students find comfort and build confidence living and learning with other teens who have similar challenges, they know that they need to prepare themselves to communicate and work well with all kinds of people. Ross’s first internship was at Sports Authority, and he held another at St. Brigid’s Elementary School Camp where he found talking with children about sports very rewarding.

His interest in sports led Ross to his next internship at WCWP 88.1 FM, the college radio station at CW Post. He ran the audio control sound board at sporting events, made guest appearances on a college sports talk show and researched sports information for use on air. He enjoyed his experience so much that he decided to study communications in college.

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SCO Beacon at MS 35

After School • Summer Camp • Beacon Community Center

SCO’s Beacon Community Center at MS35 provides school aged after school and summer programs as well as workshops, enrichment programs, recreational and fitness activities during evenings and weekends for community residents of all ages. The programs promote individual growth, support family life, create a sense of community, and welcome all children and adults living in the community.

SCO’s After School Program at MS35 offers academic enrichment, homework assistance and weekly instruction in creative/visual arts, performing arts, STEM, literacy, and recreation. Run in partnership with the school and open to all members of the community, the program provides a safe environment where students engage in activities that enrich their education, foster their academic achievement, and prepare them for future success. Our school-based program is an essential resource for working families, providing a safe and enriching environment during out-of-school hours.

SCO’s Summer Camp at MS35 provides a safe and engaging summer experience, where children can develop academic, creative and artistic abilities through art, music, film, dance and sports. Our camps equip young people with leadership development, character building, recreation, and academic enrichment, including STEM and literacy programs. On-site activities are combined with cultural, educational and recreational trips throughout New York City. The program is open to students in grades K-9. To assist working families, we offer an extended summer schedule 6 days a week that provides structured activities in the evenings and on Saturdays to keep children safe and involved.

Who Can Benefit from this Program

4th-5th graders at Brooklyn Brownstone School / 6th-8th graders at MS 35, and neighboring schools, needing after school. Families in the community needing summer camp. Brooklyn residents looking for free evening and weekend recreational activities

Age Criteria or Other Eligibility Requirements

4th-8th graders for after school activities; K-9th grade for summer camp

How to Access this Program or Service

Contact the program director at 718-674-8320

Success Stories

Ross’ Story

Westbrook Preparatory School

“I’m actually different from many people with Asperger’s in that I’m a very social guy” Learn More

Kaitlyn & Khamion

Early Education & Family Support Services

“I love this school. Sometimes I felt like giving up, but Kaitlyn was always my motivation.” Learn More

We shelter

4,600

youth, adults and children

We provide

24,000

families and individuals with support services and community activities

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