With some area school districts, including McKinney ISD, announcing plans to begin the school year completely online, child care centers are launching distance learning programs to assist students who are learning virtually.
Craig Ranch Fitness & Spa Youth Center will offer Social Distance Learning starting Aug. 13; the program allows students pursuing virtual instruction to spend their school days at Craig Ranch.
McKinney Family YMCA and both locations of RockStar Martial Arts in McKinney are also offering in-person support for students who are e-learning.
“We have been chosen, once again, to help support parents and families in our community,” said Pam Atkins, the district executive director of McKinney Family YMCA, in an email.
McKinney Family YMCA is one of four YMCA locations announced in the area to offer this program, joining spots in Frisco, Plano and Coppell. More locations will be announced in the coming days, according to a YMCA announcement.
Programs such as these allow students to participate in small, spaced-out classes and group activities, providing them opportunities to socialize with their peers in a safe environment, according to these businesses’ news releases. Students have the benefit of being separated from any distractions at home and are supported by staff oversight and attention. These programs are overseen by experienced educators and tutors, according to news releases.
“I know a lot of families work from home and don’t have the time to stop and give their kids the attention that they need. I’m one of them. I know how I feel as a parent.” said Apple Jackson, manager of Craig Ranch Youth Center. “We just want to help people. We can make it fun and feel like school but on a safer, smaller scale.”
In addition to receiving a designated space for learning, students enrolled with RockStar Martial Arts will also be able to participate in physical activities with training classes at RockStar.
Programs are being offered with daily and weekly rates at most businesses, but in many cases, space is limited. To learn more or to sign up for these programs, visit their websites at the links above.
