FAQs
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What does “the SPACE” stand for?
Short Pump Afterschool Child Enrichment
What is the SPACE?
We are a non-profit afterschool enrichment program that operates in conjunction with the Henrico County school calendar year, and serves children in kindergarten through 5th grade. Buses pick children up from Carver, Gayton, Nuckols Farm and Short Pump Elementary Schools. The SPACE provides affordable quality care in a Christ-centered environment until 6:00pm
What does the SPACE offer?
We are proud to offer ongoing life lessons to assist with the challenges young people face, snack time, homework assistance to make nights at home less stressful, special interest activities to explore a child’s creative side, and recreational fun in a non-competitive atmosphere.
What makes the SPACE different?
At the SPACE, your child is safe from the pressures of a world where one size fits all. Our staff is made up of individuals who are patient, compassionate and armed with the education and experience needed to deliver the best quality care. Students are divided into small groups of 12-20 depending on their age with 2 leaders in each group allowing our staff to build a relationship with your child. SPACE staff members receive ongoing training, ensuring that the children enrolled in the program are served as unique individuals.
Where do parents/guardians fit in at the SPACE?
We believe that parent/guardian involvement is essential to providing children the very best care possible. We value open communication between parents and staff in order to meet each child where s/he is and to monitor progress. Parents also have access to the director (by phone or email), in order to allow timely communication regarding academic concerns, emotional/social challenges, illnesses, schedule changes, and more.
Do teachers at school play a role at the SPACE?
Absolutely! With a parent’s permission, we welcome communication with teachers that allows our staff to serve a child’s needs better. The first people your child sees after a long day at school are our staff, and we are aware that unresolved issues from the day may be brought to us on their tiny shoulders. We recognize the importance of parents, teachers and our staff working together to ensure that your child feels safe and secure and meets with success.
Does the SPACE provide tutoring?
Though our staff work closely with students during homework time, our ratio of staff to children does not allow for uninterrupted one-on-one assistance for the entire homework period. Parents are encouraged to coordinate with the director, should they wish for a child’s private tutor to provide their services at the SPACE during the homework period.
What if my child has special needs?
We are committed to offering quality care to all of the children who attend the SPACE, including those with special needs. If your child has special needs, please make an appointment with the director prior to enrolling to discuss the nature of your child’s needs. Together, the parents and the director will determine if the SPACE is an environment in which your child can thrive.
What are the hours of operation at the SPACE?
The SPACE operates from 2 pm until 6 pm, Monday-Friday, in accordance with the Henrico County School calendar. The SPACE is also open on Henrico County Schools’ half-days from 11:00 AM until 6:00 PM, and provides full-day care for teacher workdays and some holidays from 8 to 6. The SPACE is not open during winter break or spring break. Quest Camp is offered during the summer.
What does the bus service at the SPACE provide?
Our bus service picks up children who attend Gayton, Nuckols Farm, and Short Pump Elementary Schools after school each day. Bus service is provided on all regular school days and half-days, as noted on the Henrico County school calendar. (Should school close early due to inclement weather, the SPACE will also close and does not provide transportation as noted in the Inclement Weather Policy in the SPACE handbook.)
Is there anything available at the SPACE during the summer for children?
Yes! Gayton Baptist Church offers an 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday-Friday QUEST summer camp. Check out our Quest Camp page for more information!
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