Cost
Free
East Side Middle School SONYC Program
Free comprehensive SONYC afterschool program serving middle school students on Upper East Side, Manhattan, run by Manhattan Youth with sports teams, performances, and diverse activities
Manhattan Youth is proud to provide a comprehensive, well-balanced afterschool program at East Side Middle School. The organization runs the school’s sports teams, produces school performances, and fills every afternoon with activity choices that appeal to the different interests of each student. All activities are free to participants thanks to funding from the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD).
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 331 East 91 Street, New York, NY 10128 |
| Borough | Manhattan (Upper East Side) |
| Provider | Manhattan Youth Recreation and Resources, Inc. |
| Website | manhattanyouth.org |
| Phone | (212) 744-0600 |
Age Range
Ages 11-14 (Grades 6-8)
Program Type
School’s Out New York City (SONYC)
Category
Youth Development
East Side Middle School SONYC program offers comprehensive programming including:
- School Sports Teams: Competitive athletics representing the school
- Performing Arts: Theater productions, music, and dance performances
- Diverse Activity Choices: Wide range of options to match different student interests
- Academic Support: Homework help and tutoring
- Creative Arts: Visual arts, music, and creative expression
- Recreation: Games, fitness, and wellness activities
- Leadership Development: Building confidence and responsibility
- Social Activities: Building friendships and community
- Well-Balanced Programming: Mix of athletics, arts, academics, and recreation
About Manhattan Youth Recreation and Resources
Section titled “About Manhattan Youth Recreation and Resources”Manhattan Youth Recreation and Resources, Inc. has been serving Manhattan’s youth since 1959, making it one of the borough’s most established youth development organizations. For over 65 years, Manhattan Youth has provided high-quality afterschool, sports, and enrichment programs that help young people discover their passions and develop their talents.
Mission: Manhattan Youth’s mission is to provide safe, engaging, and enriching programs that promote physical fitness, creative expression, academic achievement, and social-emotional development. The organization believes that all young people deserve access to diverse extracurricular opportunities.
History & Evolution: Founded in 1959 as Manhattan Youth Inc., the organization began by offering sports programs to neighborhood children. Over the decades, it has expanded to include comprehensive afterschool programming, arts education, summer camps, and community services across Manhattan.
Core Programs:
- Afterschool Programs: SONYC and COMPASS programs at multiple schools
- Sports & Athletics: Youth leagues, teams, and recreational sports
- Performing Arts: Theater, music, dance, and performance opportunities
- Visual Arts: Drawing, painting, sculpture, and creative workshops
- Summer Programs: Day camps and enrichment during school breaks
- Teen Programs: Leadership development and workforce readiness
- Family Services: Parent workshops and family engagement activities
Comprehensive Approach: Manhattan Youth is known for its ability to provide comprehensive school-based programming that includes:
- Athletic Excellence: Managing competitive school sports teams
- Arts Integration: Producing full school performances and shows
- Academic Support: Homework help and educational enrichment
- Choice-Based Model: Diverse activities allowing students to explore interests
- Professional Staff: Experienced coaches, instructors, and youth workers
Community Partnerships: Manhattan Youth partners closely with schools, community organizations, and families to create seamless supports for young people. The organization:
- Works hand-in-hand with school administrators and teachers
- Coordinates with parents and caregivers
- Brings in external partners for specialized programming
- Advocates for increased investment in youth services
The program at East Side Middle School exemplifies Manhattan Youth’s comprehensive approach, offering students a full spectrum of athletic, artistic, and academic opportunities that complement their school day and help them become well-rounded individuals.
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Check Eligibility Confirm your child is enrolled in grades 6-8 at East Side Middle School.
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Contact the Program Reach out to Manhattan Youth staff at the school or call the main office.
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Complete Application Fill out enrollment forms with student information and activity interests.
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Submit Documentation Provide required documents including emergency contacts and medical information.
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Choose Activities Select from sports teams, performing arts, and other enrichment options based on interests.
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Attend Orientation Participate in program orientation to meet coaches, instructors, and staff.
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Start Participating Begin attending daily afterschool sessions and join selected activities.
Directoryenrollment-packet/
- Manhattan Youth enrollment form
- Student information sheet
- Emergency contact information
- Medical information and consent forms
- Sports physical form (for athletic activities)
- Photo/media release form
- Code of conduct agreement
- Activity selection form
- Parent/guardian contact information
East Side Middle School is accessible via multiple transit options:
- Subway: 4, 5, 6 trains to 86th Street (5-minute walk) or 96th Street
- Bus: M15, M31, M86, M96, M101, M102, M103 serve the Upper East Side
- Located on the Upper East Side with excellent transit connectivity
Central Park
World-famous park just blocks away with playgrounds, sports fields, and endless recreation
Libraries
96th Street Library and Yorkville Library provide educational resources nearby
Museum Mile
Metropolitan Museum, Guggenheim, and other world-class museums within walking distance
Healthcare
Mount Sinai Hospital and numerous medical facilities serve the Upper East Side
Last Updated: November 25, 2025