Fort Greene Preparatory Academy SONYC Program

Program Overview

University Settlement’s Middle School COMPASS program at Fort Greene Preparatory Academy serves middle school students with engaging programming that includes STEAM activities, physical recreation, academic support, and social-emotional enrichment that serves the whole child. All activities are structured to meet participants’ needs and build on their social and academic competencies.

Whole Child Approach

This program emphasizes serving the “whole child” by integrating academic, physical, social, and emotional development into a comprehensive afterschool experience.

Location & Contact Information

Detail	Information
Address	100 Clermont Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11205
Borough	Brooklyn (Fort Greene)
Provider	University Settlement Society of New York
Website	universitysettlement.org
Phone	(212) 453-4225

Program Details

Cost

Free

Age Range

Ages 11-14 (Grades 6-8)

Program Type

School’s Out New York City (SONYC)

Category

Youth Development

What Students Experience

Fort Greene Preparatory Academy SONYC program offers comprehensive programming including:

• STEAM Activities: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math exploration
• Physical Recreation: Sports, fitness, and active play
• Academic Enrichment: Homework help, tutoring, and educational support
• Social-Emotional Learning: Building interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence
• Whole Child Development: Programming that addresses all aspects of student growth
• Fun Engagement: Activities designed to be enjoyable and meaningful
• Competency Building: Structured experiences that develop skills and confidence
• Community Connection: Building positive relationships with peers and mentors

About University Settlement Society of New York

University Settlement, founded in 1886, is one of the oldest settlement houses in the United States and a pioneering institution in the social services field. For over 135 years, the organization has been serving immigrants and low-income families on Manhattan’s Lower East Side and throughout New York City.

Historic Mission: University Settlement was founded by college students and professors who believed in bridging the gap between social classes by “settling” in immigrant neighborhoods to provide education, social services, and community support. This settlement house movement transformed American approaches to poverty and inequality.

Evolution & Expansion: From its beginnings in a tenement on Eldridge Street, University Settlement has grown into a comprehensive social services agency operating multiple sites across Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. The organization serves over 30,000 individuals annually through diverse programs.

Core Services:

• Early Childhood: Head Start, pre-K, and childcare programs
• Youth Development: Afterschool, summer camp, and teen services
• Community Centers: Cornerstone and neighborhood hubs
• Adult Services: English classes, workforce development, and senior programs
• Mental Health: Counseling and clinical services
• Arts & Culture: Music school, theater, and creative programs
• Family Support: Case management and social services

Whole Child Philosophy: University Settlement’s approach to youth development is grounded in serving the “whole child”:

• Academic Excellence: Supporting educational achievement and love of learning
• Physical Health: Promoting fitness, nutrition, and active lifestyles
• Social Development: Building positive relationships and communication skills
• Emotional Well-being: Addressing mental health and emotional regulation
• Creative Expression: Providing arts and cultural opportunities
• Character Development: Fostering values, integrity, and responsibility

Evidence-Based Programming: University Settlement uses research-backed practices and continuous evaluation:

• STEAM Integration: Hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math
• Positive Youth Development: Strength-based approach focusing on assets
• Social-Emotional Learning: Explicit instruction in emotional intelligence
• Trauma-Informed Care: Understanding and addressing adverse experiences
• Cultural Competency: Programming that honors diverse backgrounds and experiences

Brooklyn Presence: While historically rooted in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, University Settlement has expanded its reach to serve Brooklyn communities including Fort Greene. The organization brings its century-plus of experience to neighborhoods throughout NYC, adapting its proven approaches to meet local needs.

The SONYC program at Fort Greene Preparatory Academy exemplifies University Settlement’s commitment to holistic youth development, providing middle schoolers with enriching experiences that support their growth academically, physically, socially, and emotionally.

How to Enroll

1. Check Eligibility Confirm your child is enrolled in grades 6-8 at Fort Greene Preparatory Academy.

2. Contact the Program Reach out to University Settlement or school coordinators about SONYC enrollment.

3. Complete Application Fill out enrollment forms with student and family information.

4. Submit Documentation Provide required documents including emergency contacts and medical information.

5. Attend Orientation Participate in program orientation to meet staff and learn about activities.

6. Start Participating Begin attending daily afterschool programming.

Required Documents

• Directoryenrollment-packet/

  • University Settlement enrollment form
  • Student information sheet
  • Emergency contact information
  • Medical information and consent forms
  • School enrollment verification
  • Photo/media release form
  • Code of conduct agreement
  • Activity preference form

Nearby Amenities

Transportation

Fort Greene Preparatory Academy is easily accessible via public transportation:

• Subway: G train to Clinton-Washington Avenues (3-minute walk), C train to Lafayette Avenue
• Bus: B25, B38, B52, B54, B57 serve the Fort Greene area
• Located in historic Fort Greene with excellent transit access

Community Resources

Fort Greene Park

Historic park designed by Olmsted and Vaux with playgrounds, sports facilities, and green space

Library

Walt Whitman Library at 93 Saint Edwards Street offers books and programs

Cultural Institutions

Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) and numerous arts venues in the neighborhood

Healthcare

Brooklyn Hospital Center and community health clinics nearby

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Last Updated: November 25, 2025