Before and After School Programs
Before School Program
Darnall Charter School Before School Program
Mornings at Darnall Charter School begin with energy, connection, and purpose!
Our Before School Program, part of the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P), provides a welcoming space where students can start their day feeling prepared, supported, and ready to learn.
Program Purpose
The Before School Program helps students begin each day in a positive and focused way. We offer a safe, nurturing environment where students can build friendships, enjoy breakfast, and engage in enrichment activities that promote curiosity, confidence, and school readiness.
Program Offerings
Students enjoy a variety of activities designed to get their minds and bodies moving:
Morning Movement and Games – Fun physical activities that build teamwork and boost energy for the school day.
Academic Readiness – Quiet time for reading, homework completion, or academic games that reinforce key skills.
Creative Exploration – Art, music, and hands-on projects that encourage imagination and self-expression.
Wellness and Mindfulness – Activities that help students develop focus and emotional balance before the school day begins.
Safe and Supportive Environment
Our Before School Program takes place on the Darnall campus under the supervision of trained staff who ensure students are safe, cared for, and encouraged to start the day with confidence. All staff are certified in CPR, first aid, and emergency response, and promote a positive, inclusive atmosphere that reflects Darnall’s school values.
Our Team
This year, the program is led in partnership with ARC, a trusted youth enrichment organization that works closely with Darnall Charter School! ARC team members and Darnall staff collaborate to create meaningful morning experiences that set students up for success throughout the day.
Family and Community Connection
Families are an essential part of our program community. We keep families informed through ClassDojo, flyers, and newsletters in English and Spanish to ensure everyone feels connected and included.
Enrollment and Contact
The Before School Program is free for all Darnall students and priority enrollment is granted to students who are identified by the program as homeless youth, as defined by the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 11434a), at the time that they apply for enrollment or at any time during the school year, and to pupils who are identified by the program as being in foster care, who qualify for free/reduced meal prices, or are categorized as an English Language Learner. All other applicants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. All applications are time-stamped upon receipt.
The program is open to all – enroll today!
For enrollment details or questions, please contact:
Priscila Tovar
ELO-P Coordinator
 [email protected]
 (619) 582-1822 ext. 3023
After School Program
Darnall Charter School After-School Program
At Darnall Charter School, learning doesn’t stop when the school day ends, it expands!
Our Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P) provides a safe, engaging, and enriching space for students in TK–8th grade to learn, play, and grow together before and after school, as well as during intersession breaks.
Program Purpose
The ELO-P supports the whole child academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Through hands-on projects, creative clubs, and strong community partnerships, we help students discover their strengths, build confidence, and develop lifelong skills. The program is guided by our mission to provide equitable, inclusive, and joyful learning experiences for all students.
Program Offerings
Students participate in a variety of enrichment activities that make learning fun and meaningful:
STEM and Technology – Experiments, robotics, and design challenges that spark curiosity and problem-solving.
Arts and Creativity – Painting, performing arts, and school beautification projects led by ArtReach and Darnall staff.
Sports and Movement – Daily physical activity, games, and team sports to build strength and teamwork.
Gardening and Wellness – Hands-on lessons in sustainability, nutrition, and mindfulness through Jr. Master Gardeners and cooking demos.
Leadership and Voice – Student Council, service projects, and opportunities for youth to lead clubs and share ideas.
Homework Support – Dedicated time for tutoring and academic reinforcement in a supportive environment.
Safe and Supportive Environment
Safety and belonging come first. The program operates on the Darnall campus under direct staff supervision. All staff are trained in CPR, first aid, emergency procedures, and positive behavior supports, ensuring that students are cared for in a clean, well-supervised, and emotionally supportive environment.
Our Team
Now, the after-school program is operated in partnership with ARC, a trusted community organization that specializes in youth enrichment and leadership development! Together with Darnall staff, ARC leaders create a warm, inclusive environment where every child feels seen, valued, and inspired. Staff receive continuous training in youth engagement, social-emotional learning, and equity practices to ensure high-quality experiences for all students.
Family and Community Partnerships
We believe that strong family and community connections make our program thrive. Families are invited to participate in events such as the Fall Festival Family Night, student showcases, and multicultural celebrations. Communication is shared regularly through ClassDojo, flyers, and newsletters in both English and Spanish.
Enrollment and Contact
The after-school program is free for all Darnall students and priority enrollment is granted to students who are identified by the program as homeless youth, as defined by the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 11434a), at the time that they apply for enrollment or at any time during the school year, and to pupils who are identified by the program as being in foster care, who qualify for free/reduced meal prices, or are categorized as an English Language Learner. All other applicants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. All applications are time-stamped upon receipt.
The program is open to all – enroll today!
For enrollment information or questions, please contact:
Priscila Tovar
Expanded Learning Opportunities Program Coordinator [email protected] (619) 582-1822 ext. 3023