The Butler Extended Day Program (BEDP) maintains and operates non-profit, professionally staffed before and after school programs, open to all children enrolled at the Daniel Butler School, kindergarten through grade 4.
BEDP's primary goal is to provide reliable, affordable before and after school care for Butler School families in an environment which is safe, stimulating and enjoyable for the children. BEDP strives to promote the social, intellectual, gross motor, fine motor and emotional skills development of the children in its programs through a variety of activities and materials. BEDP activities are designed to complement the activities of the school day.
To provide an interesting variety of activities, BEDP hires teachers who not only have experience with and enthusiasm for working with school aged children but who also possess skills or talents in such areas as arts and crafts, music, drama and sports.
To promote a relaxed, enjoyable time, BEDP attempts to recreate in an out-of-school time setting, some of the desirable features of the neighborhood experience. In contrast to the school day, children are BEDP are free to play in mixed age groups. Many of the activities are designed to fosteer this goal, while others are tailored to specific ages and interests in recognition of the fact that children of diffferent ages have different needs. BEDP works to foster cooperation, respect and friendship among the chldren while recognizing the need for individuals to have time to themselves before or after being part of a group all day. Quiet areas are provided where a child may read, do homework, or play by him or herself. BEDP works with parents in meeting their children's needs before and after school.
The Butler Extended Day Program, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) corporation.