During National Education Week, the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City recognizes that learning happens in school, at home, and everywhere in between—including the Y! From soccer teams to afterschool care, our programming is designed to support social-emotional, cognitive, and physical growth.

Specific programs like the Elementary School Sports League allow students in the Oklahoma City Public School System to participate in sports their parents may not otherwise be able to afford. This partnership with OKCPS provides students with the equipment, uniforms and cleats needed to participate. In the fall of 2021, 486 participants from 32 schools took part in one of three sports offered: co-ed flag football, co-ed volleyball and cross country. For some of the students living in low-income areas of the district, this program helps keep them out of trouble and working toward a goal.

“One of my students in particular has learned the life lesson of finishing what you start, and her family has seen a boost of confidence,” Faisal, a Physical Education teacher with OKCPS, said. “We appreciate all the Y does for our students and community.”

Before & After School programs allow parents a place to take their children somewhere that centers on empowering students as they transition to and from school. The programming provided engages students both mentally and physically, giving them something to look forward to that also helps keep their brains and bodies active.

Whether they are playing basketball on a court in Guthrie or in a classroom at the Child Development Center downtown, children at the Y are surrounded by opportunity. Sports encourage children to learn the importance of teamwork and determination. We are proud to partner with the American education system to provide students a place to continue the growth they see in the classroom.