Kroc Center of Memphis
Students can learn virtually in-person at the YMCA and the Kroc Center.
Thousands of Shelby County students went back to class virtually last week, and while most of them studied from home, some of them went to “academies.”
Two new programs from the YMCA of Memphis and the Mid-South and the Kroc Center of Memphis now offer day camps to give students a place to learn, advisors to help them, and a place to get the wiggles out.
The YMCA partnered with Shelby County Schools (SCS) and launched its Virtual Learning Support program last week with child care offered at camp-style “academies” set up at locations throughout Shelby County.
“Our district recognizes the need for families to have additional support in their child’s virtual learning experience during these challenging times,” said SCS superintendent Dr. Joris M. Ray. “To meet this need, we are proud to expand our partnership with the YMCA to provide Virtual Learning Academies and supplemental meals to our families.”
The Virtual Learning academies help bridge the gap for working parents. They offer in-person care options for students to participate in their virtual learning classrooms. They also offer the same meal services programs the YMCA, SCS, and others have provided since March.
The academies run Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. at more than 70 sites. Registration for the academies began in late August but is still available.
The academies are free for essential workers. Fees can be offset, too, for families who qualify based on income and established need. To register and find more information, please visit ymcamemphis.org/virtuallearnin.
The Kroc Center of Memphis launched a similar program last week, as students were beginning school. Its Kroc Academy program promises a “a safe, clean, and caring environment for student learning outside of the typical classroom.” Kroc staff will help with school assignments.
Academy doors open at 7:30 a.m. and close at 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Academy is $85 per week. Extended care hours run from 3:30-6 p.m. for $30 per week.
“At the Kroc Academy, your child will receive quality care, remain academically engaged, and stay socially connected — all while you work,” reads the site.