21st CCLC Afterschool

At Better Than School, we believe that learning shouldn’t stop when the school day ends. That’s why we proudly run Newton’s Thinkers, a vibrant afterschool experience made possible through the Maryland State Department of Education’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) grant.

This powerful grant allows us to serve students in grades K–5 at four incredible elementary schools in Prince George’s County. Through our programs, we turn afternoons into exciting opportunities to explore, grow, and thrive. Each day is filled with purpose, creativity, and connection.

 

What Makes Newton’s Thinkers Special?

 

Across all sites, our students receive:

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• Homework help in a nurturing environment

• One full hour of focused reading and math enrichment led by passionate educators

• Hands-on Project-Based Learning that brings big ideas to life

• Reader’s Theater to build fluency, expression, and confidence

• Field trips that spark curiosity and create lasting memories

• Character education with real-world applications, built on the CharacterStrong curriculum

• Service learning opportunities that empower students to make a difference

• Family engagement events designed to bring schools and communities together

From STEM challenges to storytelling, cooking classes to community murals—our students are always learning, always building, always imagining what’s possible.

 

Where We Serve

🌟 Beacon Heights Elementary School | Riverdale, MD
Target Enrollment: 100 students
 Principal: Dr. Lila Walker
 At Beacon Heights, our scholars dive into creative learning experiences that stretch the imagination and nurture their love for reading, math, and science. Whether they're acting out stories in Reader’s Theater or tackling a group project, students grow into confident thinkers and leaders. Families are always welcome, with plenty of chances to join the fun and celebrate learning together.

🌟 Columbia Park Elementary School | Landover, MD
Target Enrollment: 100 students
 Principal: Michelle Tyler-Skinner
 At Columbia Park, we foster a spirit of innovation. Students explore new ideas through engaging PBL units, collaborate with peers, and shine in literacy-rich environments. Our academic hour is followed by unforgettable enrichment—from visual arts to STEM adventures—and our parent events are some of the most joyful nights of the year.

🌟 District Heights Elementary School | District Heights, MD
Target Enrollment: 75 students
 Principal: Tracey Smith Walters
 As our newest site, District Heights is already bursting with energy and possibility. Students are welcomed each afternoon into a space filled with wonder—where math games, science experiments, and powerful books turn into discoveries. Families quickly become part of the heartbeat of the program through ongoing communication and celebration.

🌟 Judge Sylvania Woods Elementary School | Glenarden, MD
Target Enrollment: 75 students
 Principal: Dr. Sandra Bunns
 At JSW, students step into their power as scholars and community leaders. With a strong focus on academic growth and service, they gain the skills and confidence to lead in the classroom and beyond. From planting gardens to performing plays, students at JSW are always growing—and always giving back.

 

Learning Without Limits

Thanks to the 21st CCLC grant, Newton’s Thinkers is more than just an afterschool program—it’s a launching pad for lifelong success. We are honored to serve our students, families, and schools with passion, purpose, and joy.