YOUTH PROGAMS
OUT OF SCHOOL TIME (OST)
For more information on OST programming or to enroll, please contact etssostp@ethiotss.org.
Summer Youth Enrichment Program (SYEP)
SYEP is a structured summer learning program, running for eight weeks between June and August, offering six hours of programming per day and serves students in 1st through 12th grade.
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The program offers a well-rounded summer experience that includes literacy, math, social-emotional learning (SEL), STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), nutrition, and cultural enrichment curriculum. Students also participate in educational field trips and hands-on experiences throughout Central Ohio that promote creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and exploration and discovery. SYEP is designed to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where all students feel supported, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential while learning and having fun.
Video provided in Partnership with United Way of Central Ohio.
After-School Program
The ETSS After-School Program serves grades K-12 and operates throughout the academic year, three days a week for a total of ten hours per week.
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This program provides academic support focused on math and literacy, social-emotional learning, health and wellness, cultural enrichment, and professional development. This program differs from other after-school programming due to the holistic support offered by on-staff bilingual assistance to English Language Learners (ELL), going beyond simple homework assistance by addressing language and cultural barriers.
Reach Higher & Healthy Transitions (HT) Programs
Reach Higher Programming offers robust career & academic support for students aged 14-18, and the Healthy Transitions (HT) Program supports students grades 6-8 in their transition to high school.
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Reach Higher Programming offers a robust support system for students aged 14-18, guiding them toward their academic, career, and personal aspirations. Through personalized academic assistance, SMART Goals, and a proven social-emotional curriculum, the program addresses the holistic needs of students. It also includes engaging STEAM and enrichment activities, preparing them for a smooth transition to Pathways 2 Success when they are ready. By fostering both academic and personal growth, Reach Higher empowers students to thrive in all aspects of their lives.
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The Healthy Transitions (HT) Program supports 6th through 8th grade students in their transition to high school. Services include academic tutoring, prevention education, assistance with high school planning, post- secondary and career exploration. We employ community partners that conduct monthly workshops for students regarding building healthy relationships, internet safety, vaping prevention, anti-bullying prevention, and others.
PATHWAYS 2 SUCCESS (P2S)
Achieve More & Prosper (A.M.P.) Program
The Achieve More & Prosper (A.M.P.) Program is a job-readiness program for Franklin County youth that operates from June to August, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM as an eight-week employment program paying $16/hour. To sign up, contact P2S@ethiotss.org or fill out this form.
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The Summer Youth Employment Program is a job-readiness program that gives low-income youth the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience, develop professional skills, and earn a paycheck to support their basic needs. The program operates from June to August, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM as an eight-week employment program paying $16/hour. Eligible students must: reside in Franklin County, be between the ages of 16 to 18, currently enrolled in school, and must meet low-income eligibility. Funded by the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and administered by FCDJFS.
Summer Youth Employment Program
The Summer Youth Employment Program is a job-readiness program for Licking County youth that operates from June to August, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM as an eight-week employment program paying $16/hour. To sign up, contact P2S@ethiotss.org or fill out this form.
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The Summer Youth Employment Program is a job-readiness program that gives low-income youth the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience, develop professional skills, and earn a paycheck to support their basic needs. The program operates from June to August, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM as an eight-week employment program paying $16/hour. Eligible students must: reside in Licking County, be between the ages of 16 to 18, currently enrolled in school, and must meet low-income eligibility. Funded by Licking County Job and Family Services.
FAMILY, SCHOOL, & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMNT
The Family, Schools, and Community Engagement Program is designed to support English Language Learner (ELL) students and their families. The program offers bilingual support, resources, and guidance through the service of Bilingual Engagement Liaisons (BELs). BELs assist families with attendance, parent portal enrollment, parent teacher conferences, transportation, community resources, and much more, in their native language. School districts served include Columbus City Schools, Pickerington Local School District, and Whitehall City Schools. We are available to serve more.
Enrollment & Attendance
Bilingual Engagement Liaisons assist families with document collection, registration, and addressing any barriers related to school attendance.
Parent Portal & School Meetings
Assistance with logging in, maintaining parent portal access, encouraging families to attend school conferences, and provide language support at those meetings.
Culturally Responsive Professional Development
Bilingual Engagement Liaisons lead trainings to help school staff understand community cultures and connect better with families.
For more information, contact Lilu Terefe, Assistant Director of Youth Programs, at lilu.terefe@ethiotss.org.
THE MICHAEL AUSTIN AWARD
The Michael Austin Award is a one-time scholarship award, which can be applied towards technology, textbooks, school supplies and other education related expenses for students who have actively been involved with ETSS Youth Programs. Awardees must be a graduating senior and planning to continue education in Fall of 2026.