Cost
Free
Academy for Personal Leadership and Excellence Afterschool Program
SONYC middle school program for students ages 11-14 in the Bronx, provided by Good Shepherd Services
The Academy for Personal Leadership and Excellence offers a dynamic COMPASS Middle School (SONYC) afterschool program through Good Shepherd Services. Located in the Fordham Heights neighborhood of the Bronx, this free program provides middle school students with engaging activities, academic support, and leadership development opportunities. The program operates Monday through Friday from 2:35pm to 5:35pm during the school year.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 120 East 184th Street, Bronx, NY 10468 |
| Borough | Bronx (Fordham Heights) |
| Provider | Good Shepherd Services |
| Website | goodshepherds.org |
| Zip Code | 10468 |
| Program Hours | Monday-Friday, 2:35pm-5:35pm |
Age Range
Ages 11-14 (Grades 6-8)
Program Type
School’s Out New York City (SONYC)
Category
Youth Development
The SONYC program at Academy for Personal Leadership and Excellence provides:
- Academic Support: Homework help, tutoring, and study skills development
- Dance Programs: Hip-hop, modern dance, and choreography workshops
- Sports & Fitness: Basketball, soccer, track and field, and fitness training
- Youth Council: Student leadership, decision-making, and civic engagement
- Theater Club: Drama, acting, stage production, and performance arts
- Leadership Classes: Public speaking, team building, and personal development
- College & Career Readiness: College tours, career exploration, and academic planning
- Family Engagement Events: Parent workshops, family nights, and community celebrations
- STEM Activities: Science projects, technology workshops, and math enrichment
- Community Service: Volunteer opportunities and neighborhood improvement projects
Good Shepherd Services has been serving New York City youth and families for over 125 years, providing comprehensive programs that promote education, employment, health, and well-being. As one of the city’s leading youth development organizations, Good Shepherd operates afterschool programs, foster care services, job training, and family support across all five boroughs. Their SONYC programs focus on creating safe, supportive environments where middle school students can explore their interests, build essential skills, and develop strong connections with caring adults and peers.
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Contact the School Visit the Academy for Personal Leadership and Excellence main office or call to express interest in the afterschool program.
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Complete Application Fill out the Good Shepherd Services SONYC program application form, available at the school or online.
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Submit Documentation Provide required documents including proof of enrollment, emergency contacts, and parent/guardian consent forms.
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Attend Orientation Participate in a student and family orientation session to learn about program activities and expectations.
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Choose Activities Select from available clubs and activities based on student interests and program offerings.
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Begin Participation Start attending the program, typically within one week of completing enrollment.
Directoryenrollment-packet/
- Program application form
- Proof of school enrollment
- Emergency contact information
- Parent/guardian consent form
- Medical information and allergies
- Photo/media release permission
- Program rules acknowledgment
The school is accessible via multiple transit options:
- 4 Train: Burnside Avenue station (0.4 miles)
- Metro-North: University Heights station (0.5 miles)
- Bx1, Bx2, Bx40, Bx41 buses serve the area
Bronx Library Center
Major library branch with extensive resources, study spaces, and teen programs at 310 E Kingsbridge Road
Devoe Park
Community park with playgrounds, sports courts, and recreational programs
NYPD 46th Precinct
Local police precinct providing community safety and youth programs
Fordham Road Shopping District
Major commercial corridor with shops, restaurants, and services (0.3 miles)
Last Updated: November 25, 2025