At Rodeph Sholom School, learning and growth continue well beyond the final bell. Our comprehensive After School Program offers current students from Threes through 4th Grade a safe, enriching environment where they can explore new interests, deepen existing passions, and form meaningful social connections—all while having tremendous fun!
Leadership
Under the direction of Ryan Allais and Assistant Director Mollie Yarsike, our After School Program has flourished into a vibrant community hub.
Ryan, a New Mexico native, joined Rodeph Sholom School’s preschool before taking the helm of the After School Program in 2022. A trained opera singer who regularly performs throughout the New York area, Ryan brings years of experience as a theater arts and vocal educator to our program. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from New Mexico State University, a Master of Arts degree in Nonprofit Leadership, and a Master of Music degree in Opera Performance from Oklahoma City University.
Working with Ryan is Mollie, who serves as Assistant Director of Summer Camp and After School Program. Mollie grew up in Michigan and joined Rodeph in 2023, bringing over nine years of experience in the nonprofit sector, including her previous role as Operations Manager for Beit Rabban Day School. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Advertising and Marketing Communications with a minor in Economics from the Fashion Institute of Technology.
Program Structure
The After School Program consists of Enrichment Classes for Threes through 4th Grade and Extended Day Classes, which include Kids’ Corner for Threes, Pre-K, and Kindergarten, and Homework Helper for 1st through 8th Grade students.
Our program partners with exceptional outside vendors like Broadway Bound Kids, My Chess Family, Take Two Film Academy, the Art Studio, and Project Swish, alongside talented Rodeph Sholom staff members, to provide a wide variety of classes both on and off campus.
Diverse Offerings for Every Interest
Course offerings vary from year to year, providing fresh opportunities while maintaining beloved favorites. Below is a sampling of the enrichment activities that students can explore through our After School Program.
For Our Threes
Our Threes can participate in the nurturing environment of Kids’ Corner, designed specifically for their developmental needs, where they engage in age-appropriate activities that foster creativity, social skills, and joyful exploration.
Pre-K and Kindergarten
Our Pre-K and Kindergarten students enjoy hour-long enrichment classes tailored to their curiosity and energy levels. They might explore the strategic thinking of chess, develop coordination through gymnastics or hip hop dance, or unleash creativity in clay modeling and painting classes. Many delight in hands-on learning through Food Science or Slimy Science, while others channel their energy into sports like basketball and soccer. Programs like “I Wanna Be an Astronaut” spark imaginative discovery, and Kids’ Corner remains available for those needing extended day options.
1st – 4th Grade
As students progress through the elementary grades, our offerings expand to meet their developing interests and abilities. First and second graders might discover theater, venture outdoors with Park Explorers, develop strategic thinking through chess programs, or express themselves through Comics and Cartooning or Improv classes. Physical activities range from Pickleball and Little Ninjas to traditional Basketball and Soccer programs, while creative and STEAM-focused offerings round out a comprehensive selection.
By the 3rd and 4th Grade, students can access all these wonderful programs, plus several additions designed for their maturing skills and interests. Unique offerings for our older students include classes like Newspaper, where they develop journalism skills; Jewelry Making for crafting wearable art; Board Game Club for strategic social play; Classic Film Making to explore visual storytelling; and Freaky Forces, which delves into fascinating scientific phenomena. These expanded options acknowledge our older students’ growing capabilities while continuing to nurture their curiosity and joy of learning.
Chess Program Spotlight
Chess enthusiasts find particular depth in our offerings:
Chess Class: Students who love chess learn basic chess skills and strategies without the pressure of preparing for competitions.
Chess Team: Students ready to take their skills to a more competitive level can join our dedicated Chess Team. The focus is on training for tournaments throughout New York City, and our students have traveled near and far to compete, often with a high level of success. Team members have full knowledge of gameplay (moves, captures, checkmate) and basic chess tactics (pins, forks, double attacks). Most importantly, students on the team bring a positive attitude and eagerness to learn. Chess Team membership includes a team shirt and professional coaching.
Chess Tournaments: We host semi-annual chess tournaments during parent-teacher conferences, open to all current Rodeph Sholom School students.
Beyond the After School Program
The vibrancy of Rodeph Sholom School extends well beyond our structured After School Program, particularly for our older students. Music flourishes throughout our community under the expert direction of Jonathan Levine, a Broadway musician who leads our comprehensive music program. Students can further develop their musical talents through private lessons with prominent musicians who share their expertise and passion with our budding artists. To learn more about our exceptional music offerings, be sure to read our recent blog post highlighting our stellar music program, “Harmonizing Excellence.”
Theater arts thrive in our Middle School through the annual musical production directed by Todd Lloyd, a beloved early childhood educator who also hosts the award-winning podcast “Little Kids, Big Hearts.” These productions offer students opportunities to shine on stage or contribute their talents behind the scenes.
Middle School Athletics rounds out our after-school offerings, providing older students with opportunities to develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical fitness while representing Rodeph Sholom School in competitive and recreational settings.
At Rodeph Sholom School, we believe in nurturing the whole child by providing opportunities that extend beyond traditional academics. Our After School Program exemplifies this commitment, creating space for students to discover new talents, develop crucial social skills, and simply enjoy being kids in a safe, supportive environment.
For more information about specific classes, schedules, or registration, please contact our After School Program office at afterschool@rssnyc.org.