LEAP 

By Mia Goldstein

LEAP, also known as Learning through an Expanded Arts Program, is MS 447’s free after-school program along with many other elementary and middle schools throughout New York City. At 447, LEAP takes place after-school from 2:50 to 5:30 with 245 students enrolled. LEAP offers much-needed time to work on homework and socialize with friends. They offer a variety of classes, including photography, visual arts, basketball, dance, theatre, and more. The sports and dance classes are some of the most popular classes, along with photography and the robotics club. There's even a new podcasting class.

Speaking of new things, MS 447 has had a new phone policy where during after-school, phones should stay in Yondr pouches until the end of the day. While students dislike the new policy compared to before, there are plenty of other things that students enjoy. One of these is the snack bar, where popular snacks like Takis sell out in a day, and you can buy a variety of snacks. In addition, for Black History Month, the cheer team performed on February 26 for the eighth grade.

Other new things LEAP has been considering include more dances a Valentine's Day dance or spring fling, and adding more theatre programs. There might even be a theatre performance on Peace and Diversity Day.

LEAP is always adding new performances, events, and classes. Even though some changes like the new phone policies can be annoying, there are also exciting new things like the performance for Black History Month and new programs/classes. In the end, LEAP is a fun, free, and exciting after-school program.