Cost
Free
Albert Shanker School for Visual and Performing Arts Afterschool Program
SONYC middle school program for students ages 11-14 in Queens, provided by YMCA of Greater New York
The Albert Shanker School for Visual and Performing Arts (IS 126) offers an exciting and engaging SONYC afterschool program through the YMCA of Greater New York. Located in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens, this free program provides middle school students with a fun, interesting, educational, and safe environment. The YMCA’s diverse clubs and activities work to enrich and empower participants through arts, sports, swimming, culinary programs, academic support, and specialized programming like “Teens Take the City” and Leaders Club.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 31-51 21st Street, Astoria, NY 11106 |
| Borough | Queens (Astoria) |
| Provider | YMCA of Greater New York/Corporate |
| Website | ymcanyc.org |
| Zip Code | 11106 |
Age Range
Ages 11-14 (Grades 6-8)
Program Type
School’s Out New York City (SONYC)
Category
Youth Development
The SONYC program at Albert Shanker School provides:
- Visual Arts: Drawing, painting, sculpture, and visual design aligned with the school’s arts focus
- Performing Arts: Theater, music, dance, and performance production
- Swimming Programs: Swimming lessons, water safety, and aquatic activities
- Sports & Recreation: Basketball, soccer, volleyball, and team sports
- Culinary Programs: Cooking classes, nutrition education, and food preparation
- Academic Support: Homework help, tutoring, and educational guidance
- Teens Take the City: Field trips and cultural experiences throughout NYC
- Leaders Club: Youth leadership development and peer mentoring
- Technology & Media: Digital arts, video production, and media literacy
- Community Service: Volunteer opportunities and civic engagement projects
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. Founded in 1852, the Y has been building strong communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility for over 170 years. The YMCA operates extensive afterschool programs in partnership with NYC public schools, providing safe, nurturing environments where young people can discover their potential. Their programs emphasize character development, academic achievement, and healthy lifestyles through diverse activities including swimming, arts, sports, and leadership training.
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Contact the School Visit the Albert Shanker School main office or contact the YMCA afterschool program coordinator.
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Complete Application Fill out the YMCA afterschool program application form, available at the school or through the YMCA website.
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Submit Documentation Provide required documents including proof of enrollment, emergency contacts, and parent/guardian consent forms.
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Swimming Waiver (if participating) Complete additional swimming permission and health screening forms for aquatic activities.
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Attend Orientation Participate in a program orientation to meet staff, tour facilities, and learn about club offerings.
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Select Activities Choose from available clubs and activities based on student interests.
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Begin Participation Start attending the program and exploring arts, sports, and leadership opportunities.
Directoryenrollment-packet/
- YMCA program application form
- Proof of school enrollment
- Emergency contact information
- Parent/guardian consent form
- Medical information and allergies
- Swimming health screening (if participating)
- Photo/media release permission
- Activity preference form
The school is exceptionally well-connected by public transportation:
- N, W Trains: Astoria Boulevard station (0.4 miles)
- M, R Trains: Steinway Street station (0.5 miles)
- Q18, Q19, Q69, Q100, Q102, Q103 buses serve the area
Astoria Library
Queens Public Library branch with study spaces, computers, and community programs at 14-01 Astoria Boulevard
Astoria Park
Large waterfront park with pool, sports fields, running tracks, and playgrounds along the East River
Museum of the Moving Image
Interactive media museum with film, TV, and digital culture exhibits (0.6 miles)
Kaufman Astoria Studios
Historic film and television production facility providing career inspiration
Last Updated: November 25, 2025