YOUTH DEVELOPMENT:

Helping students grow into positive citizens through enrichment such as community based service learning, arts, clubs, technology, nutrition classes, field trips, recreation and games, and visits from community organizations

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT:

Connecting families to their child’s education through family nights and workshops, and providing links to other helpful community supports

ACADEMIC SUPPORT:

Encouraging students to succeed academically through tutoring support, activities linked to school day learning, and Math, ELA, and STEM programming

1. What is CROP?  

The Creating Rural Opportunities Partnership (CROP) is a consortium of after school programs for children in Kindergarten through eighth grade in 14 of the 19 ONC BOCES school districts with assistance from 3 community partners.  The program is funded by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act under the 21st Century Community Learning Centers.  The program is based on need including children whose families qualify for free and reduced lunch, children who may be academically at risk, children with disabilities and children who may go home to an empty house after school.  The main objectives of the program are to provide academic improvement for students, provide youth development and personal/social enrichment for students, and help working families by providing literacy and other educational related activities to families.

2. How do I enroll my child?

To enroll your child, please call your school district and ask for the CROP Site Coordinator or refer to the "About" section of this website for contact information.  The Site Coordinator will assist you in enrolling your child and answer any questions you may have.

3. How much does CROP cost?

The CROP Program is free to families!  The program is NOT state mandated and is run via an Education Department grant so please support your local program!

4. What are the program hours?

The CROP program operates two hours after school (start times vary depending on each schools regular dismissal time) Monday-Friday.  13 of the 14 schools also host a summer program.  Summer schedules vary by site so please inquire with the Site Coordinator at your child's school.

5. Who may participate?

The partnership is extended to children in grades K-8. CROP guidelines mandate that 40% of the student enrollment be children from families who qualify for free and reduced lunch.  Preference is given to students who commit to attending at least three days per week.

6. How can I become a member of the CROP team?

Each CROP school has a Site Coordinator, several Activity Leaders and several Peer Tutors, all which are paid positions.  Contact your school district for more information on employment.  The program was developed to partner the rural communities in Central NY with the school districts and students.  If interested in volunteering, please contact your closest participating school for more information.

7. How can I get more information?

Visit the participating school or major partner webpage.  You may also inquire at a school's main office or ask to be connected with the CROP Site Coordinator.

If you would like to speak to one of the CROP Program Directors, please see the "About" section of this website for staff contact information.