Luis Alfonso Velásquez Flores After School Program

Mentoring and tutoring for elementary students ages 5-12

As a continuation of the José Martí Child Development Center, the Luis Alfonso Velásquez Flores After School Program promotes children’s dual-language development in Spanish and English, social justice awareness and cultural appreciation. The program supports students to improve academic success and positive interaction with students of all backgrounds through bilingual, multicultural mentoring and tutoring to improve school attendance, homework completion and academic performance. We offer before and/or after school care for students ages 5-12, and full-time care during the summer when students participate in fun and educational activities and field trips with changing themes throughout the weeks, to continue learning year-round and maintain grade-level proficiency. 

The After School Program’s three main goals are:

• Academic achievement, through homework assistance in both L1 (first language) and L2 (second language)
• Community involvement
• Non-violence training

We work directly with the Seattle Public Schools to support the students’ education and to obtain necessary resources for families. We also encourage family involvement to ensure a holistic approach to a child’s academic success.  Other components of the program include:

• Academic enrichment activities
• Cultural environment and event
• Family support and resources
• Social emotional development emphasizing emotion management, empathy, teamwork, responsibility, initiative and problem solving

The Luis Alfonso Velasquez After School Program partners with School’s Out Washington (SOWA), and based on evaluations by the Center for Youth Program Quality, they have been named a high quality center. In 2018, former After School Coordinator Maria Rico was honored by SOWA as an Expanded Learning Opportunity Champion. A teacher for over 22 years, Mari has been dedicated to providing an engaging and supportive environment to help children feel proud of their identity and culture, believe in themselves and build critical leadership skills. Her work exemplifies the positive impact that high quality programs can have on elevating opportunities for children and setting up them up for success. Maria now serves at the Director of our child development center at Cedar Crossing. Please click the link below to view highlights of the quality work done by Mari and the After School Program:

Frequently Asked Questions