Safe Haven Program Continues to Provide K-6 Students with Free Tutoring in Birmingham

With the recommencement of schools, several programs across Birmingham are hustling to aid students put their best foot forward inside and outside the classrooms. A notable one among them is the “Safe Haven After School Care Program“.

Program Overview

Developed and introduced in 2022 by Mayor Randall Woodfin, this no-cost program targets students ranging from kindergarten to sixth grade. The program gets into gear from Sept. 9. “Given that many parents are battling tough times, we at Birmingham Park and Recreation recognize this as a chance to fulfill the needs of our community”, said Recreation Superintendent David Primus.

Schedule and Curriculum

The after-school program runs from 3:30 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. from Monday to Friday. Certified tutors are present at the centers from Monday to Wednesday. An array of subjects including lessons on conflict resolution are taught. Parents are expected to enroll their child at one of the six participating recreation centers which include Center Park, Ensley, Fountain Heights, Memorial, and centers named after Martin Luther King Jr. and Don Hawkins. They are also entrusted with the task of transporting their child to and from the center.

Additional Offerings of the Safe Haven Program

Not just academic enrichment, but care as well! As part of Birmingham City School’s After Care Program, parents have the option to leave their students on-site for a small fee. This care program caters to students from kindergarten to the eighth-grade level. Moreover, Child Care Resources offer support to eligible families for covering these fees.

Program at Tuggle Elementary

In addition to the above, an aftercare program that operates until 6 p.m. is also available at Tuggle Elementary. A small fee is applicable for this program as well. Given the sweeping impacts of the pandemic on families, the provision of such services goes a long way in supporting the educational and developmental needs of children. As it encourages safe, nurturing, and conducive environments for learning, the Safe Haven After School Care Program surely lives up to its name!