Beginning Tuesday, the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas, in partnership with Gloucester County Public Schools, will have before- and after-school care programs hosted at each of the five GCPS elementary schools. The program will provide a safe and engaging environment for students.
“It’s been a labor of love for sure,” said YMCA Vice President of Child Care Caitlyn Leavens.
In September of 2025, the Gloucester County School Board unanimously voted to move forward with the program. Since then, the YMCA and the principals of Abingdon, Achilles, Bethel, Botetourt and Petsworth elementary schools have been working together to start the program. The schools’ community engagement coordinators have also been instrumental in this process.
Each school day, children from ages four to 12 can be dropped off as early as 6:30 a.m. at the school in which they are enrolled and will be watched until the school day starts. Students will be received upon dismissal and parents can pick up their children as late as 6 p.m.
After school, students can receive help with their homework, engage in arts and crafts, participate in physical activities and more. Students will be divided into age groups to participate in age-appropriate activities.
Enrollment for the before- and after-school care program is ongoing and will remain open even after the start of the session.
“There are spaces available at every location,” said Leavens. “We are actively seeking enrollment daily.”
Leavens stated that “it’s a difficult time in the year” to garner before- and after-school care pupils since the school year is already at its midpoint.
“We’re really hoping to serve more in the summer and into the 2026-2027 school year,” said Leavens.
The upcoming session will operate from Feb. 17 through June 5. The cost per week for before-school care is $50, after-school care is $70 and combined before- and after-school care is $90 for members. For non-members, the cost is $70 for before-school care, $90 for after-school care and $130 for combined before- and after- school care.
“We’re here and we’re accessible to all,” said Leavens.
There are financial assistance and Department of Social Services subsidies available for those who many struggle with the cost of enrolling their children in the program.
“We don’t turn people away for their inability to pay,” said Leavens. “We will work something out.”
For more information about the program or to enroll, email 21childcare@ymcavp.org or visit ymcavp.org/programs-and-classes/child-care-and-camps/before-and-after-school-care.
“We’re truly so excited to get up and running,” said Leavens.