Cost
Free - No cost to families
Lexington Academy
Free COMPASS Elementary afterschool program for K-5 students in East Harlem, Manhattan, provided by Children's Aid
The Lexington Academy afterschool program at PS 72 is operated by Children’s Aid, one of New York City’s most trusted nonprofit organizations. Located in East Harlem, this free COMPASS Elementary program is proud to be part of the Boys & Girls Club of America, offering comprehensive services and support to children, youth, and families in the community.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 131 East 104th Street, New York, NY 10029 |
| Borough | Manhattan (East Harlem) |
| Provider | Children’s Aid |
| Website | childrensaidnyc.org |
| Zip Code | 10029 |
Age Range
Ages 5-11 (Grades K-5)
Program Type
COMPASS Elementary
Category
Youth Development
The Lexington Academy program offers a comprehensive range of activities:
- Homework Help - Academic support for daily assignments
- Tutoring - Targeted academic assistance
- SEL (Social Emotional Learning) - Building emotional intelligence
- Literacy - Reading and writing enrichment
- Fitness - Physical activity and health education
- Dance - Creative movement and performance
- STEM - Science, technology, engineering, and math
- Computers - Digital literacy and technology skills
- Cooking - Nutrition education and culinary skills
- Group Led Activities - Team building and collaboration
- Arts & Crafts - Creative expression
Children’s Aid has been ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and lead for over 170 years. The organization is dedicated to helping children and families in under-resourced New York City neighborhoods succeed through a comprehensive approach to child development.
- 50,000 children and families served annually
- 83% of donations go directly to programs and services
- 3 health centers ranked in NYC’s top 10% for immunization rates
- Programs across Brooklyn, Harlem, Lower Manhattan, South Bronx, Washington Heights, and Westchester
Children’s Aid connects children and youth with tools to:
- Learn - Academic and social-emotional learning support
- Grow - Health, nutrition, and wellness programs
- Lead - College and career readiness, leadership development
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Visit the Children’s Aid website Go to childrensaidnyc.org/programs/finder to search for programs.
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Find the Lexington Academy location Search for the PS 72 / East Harlem Center location.
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Contact the program Reach out to the site directly for enrollment information.
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Complete registration Fill out required enrollment forms.
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Submit required documents Provide necessary documentation for program eligibility.
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Begin the program Attend orientation and start participating in activities.
Directoryenrollment-packet/
- Student registration form
- Emergency contact information
- Medical/health disclosure
- Immunization records
- Photo/media release consent
- Parent/guardian agreement
East Harlem is accessible via multiple transit options:
- Subway: 103rd Street Station (6 train) - 0.2 miles
- Subway: 110th Street Station (6 train) - 0.4 miles
- Bus: M96, M98, M101, M102, M103 routes
- Metro-North: Harlem-125th Street Station (1.5 miles)
Central Park
Eastern edge of Central Park with playgrounds and recreation (0.3 miles west)
Aguilar Library
New York Public Library branch at 174 E 110th Street
23rd Precinct
NYPD precinct at 164 E 102nd Street
FDNY Engine 53
Fire station at 1836 3rd Avenue
- Associated Supermarket - 3rd Avenue
- Fine Fare - Lexington Avenue
- East Harlem bodegas - Throughout the neighborhood
- La Marqueta - Historic East Harlem market
Children’s Aid was founded in 1853 by Charles Loring Brace, who pioneered new approaches to helping children escape poverty. The organization is known for the historic Orphan Train Movement (1854-1929), which relocated approximately 200,000 orphaned, abandoned, or homeless children from New York City to foster homes across America.
Today, Children’s Aid continues that legacy through modern, evidence-based programs that help children and families thrive.
Last Updated: November 25, 2025