Finding reliable and enriching after school care for your child is a top priority for working parents. In Downey, and throughout Brockton, the Smart Start Extended Day Program offers a fantastic solution, providing a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for students to thrive beyond the regular school day. This program, available at Downey School and multiple other locations, is designed to meet the needs of families seeking high-quality care with a focus on both fun and development.
Smart Start Extended Day: Your Trusted Choice for After School Programs at Downey School and Beyond
The Smart Start Extended Day Program is a well-established initiative within the Brockton Public Schools system, dedicated to providing exceptional care for elementary school students. Operating at Downey School, as well as Angelo, Arnone, Baker, Brookfield, Davis, George, Gilmore, Hancock, Kennedy, and Raymond Schools, Smart Start offers both morning and afternoon sessions to accommodate diverse family schedules. The morning session begins bright and early at 7:00 AM, while the afternoon session extends until 6:00 PM, ensuring comprehensive coverage before and after school hours.
Registration for the 2024-2025 School Year:
Families interested in enrolling their children in the Smart Start Extended Day Program are encouraged to apply. It’s important to note that new applications are currently being placed on a waitlist as the program is highly sought after. As spaces become available at each location, including Downey School, site supervisors will directly contact families to confirm start dates and complete the enrollment process.
To begin your registration, please visit the online portal: www.ezchildtrack.com/smartstart/parent
Key Information for a Smooth Start:
The Extended Day Program is set to commence at all participating schools on Wednesday, September 4th. To ensure a seamless transition for your child, please be aware that your child can only attend the program after you have been contacted by the site supervisor at your designated school. Registrations are processed diligently in the order they are received, and site supervisors will reach out as quickly as possible to confirm your child’s start date and provide further instructions. Your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated as the program works to accommodate all interested families.
Why Choose Smart Start Extended Day Programs?
Smart Start Extended Day is not just another after school program; it’s a funded program recognized by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). This designation means the program adheres to stringent policies and quality standards set forth by the EEC, ensuring a high level of care and accountability. Smart Start proudly accepts childcare contracts and vouchers, making quality after school care accessible to more families.
One of the hallmarks of the Smart Start program is its commitment to maintaining a low staff-to-student ratio of 1:13. This ensures that children receive ample individual attention, supervision, and support from dedicated and qualified staff members. This ratio is crucial for creating a nurturing and safe environment where children can learn, play, and grow confidently.
Prioritizing Health and Safety:
The well-being of every child is paramount. Smart Start Extended Day strictly adheres to all health and safety guidelines for COVID-19, as adopted by the Brockton Public Schools, the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). You can be assured that your child’s health and safety are continuously monitored and protected within the program.
A Partnership with Families:
Smart Start values open communication and strong collaboration with families. They recognize that parents are their most important partners in supporting children’s development. The program encourages ongoing dialogue and welcomes parental involvement to ensure a cohesive and supportive experience for every child enrolled.
Explore the Extended Day Handbook:
For more detailed information about program policies, procedures, and guidelines, please refer to the Extended Day Handbook, available in multiple languages:
- Extended Day Policy Handbook (English)
- Extended Day Policy Handbook (Spanish)
- Extended Day Policy Handbook (French)
- Vacation Handbook
Contact Your Site Supervisors
For direct inquiries or to follow up on your registration, please reach out to the dedicated site supervisors at each school location. The table below provides contact information for the managers of subsidized care and vouchers, as well as site supervisors at each participating school, including Downey School.
| Managers of Subsidized Care & Vouchers | Susan Devaney Meghan McPeck | (774) 480-4260 (774) 480-4259 |
|---|---|---|
| Angelo School | Dana Cohen Tina Eastman Emily Thibeault | (774) 517-7104 |
| Arnone School | Shelbi Donato Natasha Miles Dominic Santo Debra Williams | (774) 517-7098 |
| Baker School | Timothy Mack Elizabeth O’Brien Nicole Thomas Shannon Whitehead | (781) 857-8678 |
| Brookfield School | Brandon Cicchetti Diane Perrault Tiffany Woods | (781) 857-8601 |
| Davis School | Jennifer Baker Brian Ferrari Maria Silva | (774) 517-7150 |
| Downey School | Toni Harris-Castro James Hatch AnnaLee Weatherbee | (774) 517-7224 |
| George School | Lauren Caldera Maria Lobo-Andrade Janine Sorrenti | (774) 517-7231 |
| Gilmore School | Ashley Abbondanza Kaitlyn Enos Adam St. Peter | (774) 517-7233 |
| Hancock School | Vilma Andrade Julie Quill Joquebede Sanca Amy Simon | (781) 857-8791 |
| Kennedy School | Maureen Donaruma Kelly LaBelle Emily Weldon | (774) 517-7274 |
| Raymond School | Leanne Anderson Lisa Looney Christine Sowden Raynard | (774) 517-7277 |
Choosing the right after school care program is a significant decision. Smart Start Extended Day at Downey School and other Brockton locations offers a comprehensive, caring, and enriching experience for your child. Register today to secure a spot on the waitlist and take the first step towards providing your child with exceptional after school care!
