Free After-School Program Launching at Ellenville Elementary School
Published on October 23, 2026
Ulster County Launches Free After-School Program at Ellenville Elementary School
KINGSTON, NY - The Ulster County Youth Bureau, in partnership with the Ellenville Central School District and the Ulster County Office of Employment and Training (OET), is launching a free after-school program for elementary school students. The program will run on all regular school days from 3:45 – 6 PM, beginning on November 2.
Hosted at Ellenville Elementary School, the program is designed to offer a safe, engaging, and enriching space for young people in grades K-6 during after-school hours. Students will have access to homework assistance, academic enrichment, arts and crafts, recreational activities, games, physical activities, social-emotional learning, and a variety of special programming — such as field trips — throughout the year. Free meals and snacks will also be provided daily.
This initiative is supported through a collaboration with the Ellenville Central School District, which is providing space for the program, and OET, which is employing five Ellenville High School students as paid after-school staff. These students will work closely with Lily Cigale, Youth Development Specialist at the Ulster County Youth Bureau, to deliver high-quality programming.
Families are invited to learn more and enroll at the following upcoming events:
• Saturday, October 24, 1–4 PM: Ellenville Hospital Wellness Fair
• Tuesday, October 27, 3:30–5:30 PM: Ellenville Elementary School during dismissal
Parents and guardians may also contact the Ulster County Youth Bureau at 845-340-3147 or by emailing smel@ulstercountyny.gov for additional information. Enrollment will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with space available for the first 40 eligible students who submit completed packets.
“Expanding youth programming in Ellenville has been a priority of mine since coming into office, and we are thrilled to be able to provide this after-school program at no cost to families,” said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger. “This is a particularly high-needs community that lacks affordable after-school options. Our Youth Bureau has worked closely with the school district to develop a program that will enrich these young students’ educational experience and support their future success.”
“We are excited to launch this free after-school program in Ellenville, creating a safe, welcoming, and engaging space where young people can learn, grow, and thrive,” said Sugely Melenciano-Weed, Director of the Ulster County Youth Bureau. “Every child deserves access to opportunities that support their development, regardless of their family's financial circumstances. Through our partnership with the Ellenville Central School District and the Office of Employment and Training, we are strengthening our commitment to supporting youth and families throughout Ulster County.”
“We have recognized the need for more after-school opportunities for our students for many years, and we are excited to see this program become a reality,” said Ellenville Central School District Superintendent Lisa Wiles. “Having a safe, supportive place where children can continue learning, explore new interests, and build positive relationships beyond the school day will make a meaningful difference for our students and families. We are especially grateful to Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger and the Ulster County Youth Bureau for recognizing this need and committing the resources necessary to make it happen.
“I am excited about this opportunity to bring a positive and engaging after-school program to the children and families of Ellenville!,” said Lily Cigale, Youth Development Specialist at the Ulster County Youth Bureau. “I will be utilizing my experience in children’s programming and counseling background to design developmentally appropriate activities and support the holistic well-being of the children we serve.”
“Ellenville has long needed additional safe, engaging spaces for our young people, and this program is a welcome investment. County Executive Metzger continues to show that Ellenville is held in high priority in her administration, and continues to advance initiatives that show support to our community,” said TJ Briggs, Ulster County Legislator representing Wawarsing & Ellenville. “When families know their children have access to high-quality, supportive activities after school, it strengthens the entire community, and we appreciate this immensely.”