Our Programs
Within our after school and summer programming, SAYA provides our diverse students with allies within the school system who understand their unique experiences and challenges, and support their social, emotional, and scholastic growth. Through participation in SAYA, youth build confidence, community, and a sense of belonging—cultivating vital skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
SAYA currently offers programs in several neighborhoods in Queens and Brooklyn—at three elementary schools in Kensington, South Ozone Park, and Elmhurst; three middle schools, in Elmhurst, Glen Oaks, and Ozone Park; four high schools in Jamaica, Long Island City, and Richmond Hill; and at our center in Elmhurst.
Elementary School
Our elementary programming focuses on learning through arts and enrichment, including activities such as painting, storytelling, geography, STEAM, music, literacy, and a range of sports. We also provide homework help and ensure participants understand and complete their assignments.
For questions or more information, please email Griselda Estevez, Senior Director of Programs.
Elementary school sites
P.S. 124 Osmond A Church
129-15 150th Ave
Ozone Park, NY 11420
P.S. 230 The Doris L. Cohen School
1 Albemarle Rd
Brooklyn, NY 11218
Central Queens Academy Charter School
88-14 Justice Ave
Elmhurst, NY 11373
Middle School
Our middle school offerings include leadership programming designed to build resilience, confidence, and communication. Participants take the lead in planning activities and events, and receive targeted support to prepare for the academic and social transition from middle to high school. They are guided in setting ambitious goals during their high school selection process and completing applications. We also provide enrichment activities that complement their interests and provide creative outlets, including glee club, martial arts, STEM, and arts & crafts.
For questions or more information, please email Griselda Estevez, Senior Director of Programs.
Middle School Sites
Central Queens Academy Charter School
88-14 Justice Ave
Elmhurst, NY 11373
J.H.S. 202 Robert H. Goddard
138-30 Lafayette St
Ozone Park, NY 11417
Our World Neighborhood Charter School Middle School
31-20 37th St
Astoria, NY 11103
HIGH SCHOOL
At our high school sites, we tailor our approach to address the unique academic needs of each individual - bridging learning gaps, reinforcing the connection to education, and nurturing abilities. Each program also places a strong emphasis on identity development, helping youth build essential leadership skills while fostering connections with peers. By building a sense of belonging and increasing confidence, we enable them to become effective advocates for themselves and their community. Additionally, we provide opportunities for enrichment through a variety of activities that promote creativity, self-expression, and well-being.
For questions or more information, please email Suhail Ahmed, Chief Program Officer.
HIGH SCHOOL SITES
High School for Construction Trades, Engineering, and Architecture
94-06 104th Street
Ozone Park, NY 11416
Hillcrest High School
160-05 Highland Avenue
Jamaica Hills, NY 11432
Richmond Hill High School
89-30 114th Street
Richmond Hill, NY 11419
Epic High School - South
121-10 Rockaway Blvd
South Ozone Park, NY 11420
Thomas A. Edison Career and Technical Education High School
165-65 84th Avenue
Jamaica, NY 11432
Elmhurst Center
At our Elmhurst Center, students from high schools throughout New York City are separated into cohort by grade, offering unique programming to address the challenges that youth face.
For questions or more information, please email Aaron Montgomery, Co-Director of High School and College Programs, or Seema Choudhary, Co-Director of High School and College Programs.
Arise
Rising 9th and rising 10th Grade
In our co-ed leadership cohort, young people develop the confidence they need to become leaders and agents of social change in their schools and communities. They participate in skill-building and self-exploration workshops on youth-selected topics; hold conversations covering identity, culture, and social issues; and build social skills and connections with peers and mentors. Youth also gain exposure to various higher education and professional options - receiving support to keep them on track for high school graduation while beginning to plan for college.
Young Women’s and Young Men’s Leadership Programs
11th Grade (includes SAT Prep)
In our gender-based leadership programs, youth develop their personal and social identities in a culturally affirming space; gain the skills and knowledge necessary to stay healthy in mind and body; receive mentorship; and grow social, emotional learning skills. We aim to help participants grow self-awareness and confidence, communication and conflict resolution skills, and self-care practice. Young people also learn valuable skills such as personal finance and negotiation, to help them continue to grow their independence throughout their time at SAYA, in college, and beyond.
Senior Cohort and College Transitions
11th & 12th Grade
Youth in Senior Cohort receive comprehensive support throughout the entirety of the college application process. They attend workshops designed to introduce college-level academics, as well as campus trips intended to expand their knowledge of college options. As they reach the end of their senior year, youth shift into our College Transition cohort and learn what tools are needed to succeed after high school. They receive assistance in completing financial aid applications and discuss their college decisions. Career exposure is also introduced through panels, events, and trips to diverse workplaces.
College Success
For questions or more information, please email Aaron Montgomery, Co-Director of High School and College Programs.
All years in an undergraduate program
Once they begin college, youth shift into our College Success cohort. They learn about the tools that will help them to succeed throughout their higher education careers, and cultivate skills such as goal setting, time management, and self-advocacy. Through advisement and mentorship, they reflect on their progress in each class, plan and prepare for midterms or finals, create and review a four year graduation plan, register for classes, receive support with securing financial aid, and are coached on communicating with professors. In addition, students are guided through barriers that can contribute to attrition such as personal, family, and financial hardship. Lastly, the program provides career readiness training in areas such as searching for jobs and internships, crafting cover letters and resumes, preparing for interviews, and connects them to numerous resources. This cohort provides students across all years of college the guidance necessary for a smooth transition into independence.