Montville could get after-school programs back

Montville - After-school programs run by the YMCA could soon be returning to the school district.

It's possible that by mid-February, the programs could be held at the Mohegan Elementary School and the Dr. Charles E. Murphy School, with students from the Oakdale Elementary School eligible to participate in the Murphy program.

"We did a survey and found out there is considerable interest at the Mohegan and Murphy schools and some at Oakdale," Interim Superintendent of Schools James Connelly said Thursday. 'They have a very good structured program and would be welcomed in the district."

Connelly said when the Norwich Y closed earlier this year, the YMCA in Westbrook approached the district about continuing the after-school childcare program.

Since then, the Ocean Community YMCA in Westerly has been designated as the Y that will cover the region and has also expressed an interest in running the programs.

"We're anxious to get started," Ocean Community YMCA President and CEO Maureen Fitzgerald said Friday. "We sincerely appreciate the support from the school principals and interim Superintendent Connelly. We are excited to provide high-quality after-school programs in Montville."

The program will run immediately upon dismissal until 6 p.m. and will be held at the Mohegan and Murphy schools, with students from Oakdale being bused to Murphy.

Considered an enrichment program, the after-school activities include designated homework time, as well as physical activities and arts and crafts.

Fitzgerald said the Y will conduct thorough background checks of all employees.

The chapter, based in Westerly, is in the process of being licensed to operate the programs at the Montville schools; it currently operates similar programs at two schools in Groton, as well as other educational districts in Rhode Island. Fitzgerald said she expects the process to be complete by February and programming could begin within a few days of licensure.

Connelly said as a bonus, because of the YMCA's structure and policies, no child will be denied enrollment for financial reasons.