Out-of-School Time Activities and Programs
Out-of-school time (OST) activities, including after school, summer, and vacation week programs, provide students with excellent opportunities for growth beyond the traditional school day and year. These programs foster valuable relationships, new friendships, and exposure to diverse experiences. A wide range of OST opportunities are available for students throughout Cambridge.
After school clubs, intramurals and programs are available to all upper school students, many at no cost. These activities offer structured environments that foster strong relationships, encourage new friendships, reinforce academic skills, and introduce new experiences – all while providing enjoyable ways to stay active. They also prepare students for high school, allowing them to take advantage of the numerous and amazing OST opportunities available at CRLS. For more information about after school bus eligibility and stops, click here.
Before and After School Activities Happening at PAUS:
The CPS Before and After School Activities Portal is where parents and caregivers can learn about and register for before and after school programs and activities being run by PAUS.
Additional After School Programs Located at or Near PAUS:
Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) CYP Pre-Teen / Middle School Afterschool Programs (4th-8th Grade) -- [DHSP-run Moore Youth Center is located relatively close to PAUS]
The Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) offers a variety of youth-serving, Out-of-School Time (OST) programs for Cambridge children, youth, and teens designed to develop children’s social and emotional growth and build healthy relationships. Open seats are filled through a lottery process. Families can apply through the online lottery for afterschool and summer programs.
DHSP Lottery Application Dates
- DHSP Summer Programs: Lottery open to applications: February-March
- DHSP Afterschool Programs: Lottery open to applications: April-May
For more information, including step-by-step instructions and tuition rates, visit their website or contact DHSP: askDHSP@cambridgema.gov, 617.349.6200
East End House Middle School Program @ PAUS (6th-8th Grade)
The East End House Middle School Program, offered free of charge during the school year, is the result of a collaboration between East End House and the Cambridge Public School District. The program serves 30 middle school youth from Cambridge at the Putnam Avenue Upper School (PAUS) during the school year and summer. Classes are designed to build academic confidence and complement what children learn in school. Students have the choice of daily enrichment activities that focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), with arts and character development elements woven into all curriculum. For information on enrolling your child in after school or summer program, email Marse Romero, marse@eastendhouse.org, or text/call her at 857.292.4185.
Many other Afterschool, Summer and OST Programs are located all over Cambridge! To learn more about the OST programs and activities happening throughout Cambridge, the Cambridge Agenda for Children OST has compiled resources. Click here to view Afterschool and Summer Resource Guides and Slideshows.
If you need help finding a OST program outside of CPS, fill out the After School Search Help Form.
The Cambridge Agenda for Children Out-of-School Time (AFCOST) is a citywide intermediary working with Cambridge Public Schools as well as many other city-run and community-based programs serving young people beyond the school day and year. AFCOST’s mission is to increase equity, access and innovation and sustain the highest quality OST opportunities and experiences for all children, youth and families.
