Antonia Pantoja Preparatory Academy Afterschool Program

SONYC middle school program for students ages 11-14 in the Bronx, provided by YMCA of Greater New York

Program Overview

Antonia Pantoja Preparatory Academy (APPA) offers an engaging SONYC afterschool program through the Castle Hill YMCA. Located in the Soundview neighborhood of the Bronx, this free in-person program provides middle school students with a safe, engaging, and supportive space to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. Each afternoon offers a balance of academic support, hands-on enrichment, and active recreation with diverse activities including STEM projects, arts, sports, and leadership development.

Location & Contact Information

Detail	Information
Address	1980 Lafayette Avenue, Bronx, NY 10473
Borough	Bronx (Soundview)
Provider	YMCA of Greater New York/Corporate (Castle Hill Branch)
Website	ymcanyc.org
Zip Code	10473

Program Details

Cost

Free

Age Range

Ages 11-14 (Grades 6-8)

Program Type

School’s Out New York City (SONYC)

What Students Experience

The SONYC program at Antonia Pantoja Preparatory Academy provides:

Academic Support: Homework help, tutoring, and educational enrichment
STEM Projects: Science experiments, technology workshops, engineering challenges, and math enrichment
Arts Programs: Visual arts, music, dance, drama, and creative expression
Sports & Recreation: Basketball, soccer, volleyball, fitness, and recreational games
Leadership Development: Youth council, peer mentoring, and character building
Hands-On Learning: Project-based activities that promote creativity and critical thinking
Social Skills: Team building, communication, and interpersonal development
Friendship Building: Opportunities to connect with peers and form lasting relationships
Health & Wellness: Nutrition education, physical fitness, and healthy living
College & Career Readiness: Academic planning and future preparation

About YMCA of Greater New York

The YMCA of Greater New York is one of the largest and most comprehensive YMCAs in the United States, serving over 650,000 New Yorkers annually across all five boroughs since 1852. The organization is committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Castle Hill YMCA branch has been serving the Bronx community for decades, providing afterschool programs, summer camps, fitness facilities, and family support services. The Y’s afterschool programs emphasize character development, academic achievement, and healthy lifestyles in safe, nurturing environments.

How to Enroll

Contact the School Visit Antonia Pantoja Preparatory Academy’s main office or call to inquire about the YMCA afterschool program.
Complete Application Fill out the YMCA afterschool program application form, available at the school or through ymcanyc.org.
Submit Documentation Provide required documents including proof of enrollment, emergency contacts, and parent/guardian consent forms.
Attend Orientation Participate in a program orientation to meet YMCA staff, learn about activities, and understand expectations.
Select Activities Choose from available clubs and activities based on student interests.
Begin Participation Start attending the program and exploring STEM, arts, sports, and leadership opportunities.

Required Documents

Directoryenrollment-packet/
- YMCA program application form
- Proof of school enrollment
- Emergency contact information
- Parent/guardian consent form
- Medical information and allergies
- Photo/media release permission
- Activity preference form