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The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program provides federal assistance to parents who hail from underserved communities. At its core, the program focuses on key academic subjects such as reading, math, and science. This program is also intended to offer students a broad array of activities and to include families and the community in the educational process.
However, this program wouldn't be successful without the countless dedicated and engaged staff whose passion is to help young children develop into well-rounded adolescents and ultimately, productive citizens.
Aleyah Lopez, a, ASPIRA Coding Teacher/ELA at Luis Muñoz Marin Elementary School, is one of those individuals. She recently sat down with ASPIRA Program Coordinator Luinis Sosa to briefly chat about her role, the impact of the program, and what it means to her. Check it out below!
LS: So, how long have you worked with ASPIRA and the 21st CCLC program?
I have worked with ASPIRA since November 2020, so about 4 months! It's been a very pleasant experience thus far!
LS: Students are often shy when it comes to learning new things. What are some of the daily things that you do with ASPIRA and the 21st CCLC to build them up?
Some daily activities that students and I do are: Collaborating on school homework assignments and study sessions, playing fun team games such as Among Us and Roblox, and having fun days where we play Kahoot games of their choosing, or watch fun kid-friendly movies! I really want to empower kids and make sure that they are as involved as possible with whatever activity I plan.
LS: How do you assist parents in the 21st CCLC program?
In order for me to help my students be successful, you have to have a positive connection with their parents. I have a wonderful relationship with most of my parents and I maintain constant communications via phone call, text message, or email. In addition, I serve as a liaison for ASPIRA, signing up students on parents for a variety programs, workshops and opportunities.
LS: What is the biggest challenge that you face on a daily basis? How do you assist parents in the 21st CCLC program? The biggest challenge I face on a daily basis is keeping things creative so students aren't bored with the same routine. Everyone likes variety and that's no different with children. I like to keep them on their toes - they never see me coming! (LOL!).
LS: What is the best part of working in and with ASPIRA and the 21st CCLC?
The best part of working in and with ASPIRA is getting to know my students on a deeper and more personal level outside of the classroom. I feel really supported by the ASPIRA staff and feel as though the employees have a lot of freedom to make the program as enjoyable as possible for their students - and I really appreciate that opportunity!
So there you have it! If you'd like to learn more about the Luis Muñoz Marin Elementary School, click below:
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