SAT Summer Intensive Program

The SAT Summer Intensive Program was a collaborative college preparatory initiative designed to help rising 11th and 12th grade students strengthen their SAT performance and expand their college opportunities. Presented by the White Plains Youth Bureau and Bell Curves Educational Services, the program provided students with expert instruction, focused preparation and a structured pathway preparing students with the skills, strategies and confidence needed to succeed on the SAT exam.

Over an eight-week summer experience, students participated in guided instruction, targeted SAT strategies, three full length digital diagnostic exams and a final strategy session designed to help them approach the official exam with greater confidence and preparation. 

The initiative represents the power of community partnership: bringing together the City of White Plains Youth Bureau, Westchester Clubmen Foundation, Bell Curves and the College of Westchester to provide students with meaningful academic support and greater access to college opportunities.

This eight-week in-person program runs from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm on Tuesdays & Thursdays from July thru August at the College of Westchester.

No. This program is a fully funded opportunity, providing accepted students with SAT preparation at no cost.

  • Rising 11th and 12th grade students
  • Students interested in strengthening their SAT performance and expanding their college options
  • Selective enrollment with limited space
  • Priority is given to students who demonstrate commitment to completing the program and participating consistently.

No. This is an educational enrichment program. Students participate at no cost but do not receive compensation.

Students must apply for enrollment. Space is limited to 30 participants and interested students are encouraged to apply early. Registration information can obtained by contacting Jason Roberts at Jaroberts1216@yahoo.com.

Project Digital Jumpstart

Project Digital Jumpstart (PDJ) is a program designed to enhance digital skills training and employment opportunities for high school students in high-growth digital industries.  Participants engage in coursework in IT Essentials and Computer Forensics with the opportunity to earn up to six (6) college credits.  Additionally, experiential learning experiences across artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, CISCO network administration and life skills workshops enhance their hands-on curricular experience.  PDJ is a partnership between the White Plains Youth Bureau and The College of Westchester.

November-May – Saturdays, 9:30-1:30 at College of Westchester- 325 Central Ave, White Plains

July and August, Monday-Thursday 9:30-1:30 @ College of Westchester *paid summer employment opportunity

Youth must be 14-18, and a current high school student to participate. They must complete and submit an application and be available for the date and timeframe of the scheduled classes.  Youth will be required to obtain working papers for the summer paid component. 

Youth can express interest in participating in the school year component by emailing Patti Staffiero @ pstaffiero@whiteplainsny.gov.  For the summer paid component, the summer employment application can be downloaded from the Summer Employment Program page.

Tutoring

Middle and high school students who need help with Math, Science and English can contact us to be paired with a tutor. 

Tutoring sessions must be scheduled based on availability.

The program is free of charge to families in White Plains.

Students must be in 6th through 12th grade. 

Applications are available at the Youth Bureau. Must have a parent or guardian must fill out the Neighborhood Services Registration Form which you can download by clicking the ‘REGISTRATION FORM’ button on this page.
You can also email Gina Covington at gcovington@whiteplainsny.gov for more information or to receive applications in English or Spanish.

Drum Corps

Students in grades 6-12 learn how to play the drums and participate in local parades and events. Whether you have been playing the drums for years or have never picked up a stick, we teach you everything you will need to know! Program is FREE and equipment is included.

Thursdays from 4pm – 5:30pm and Saturdays from 1pm – 2:30pm.

Middle School and High School students are welcome to participate. The Drum Corps performs in parades and in events.

Applications are available at the Youth Bureau or downloaded by clicking the ‘REGISTRATION FORM’ button on this page.

You can also email Gina Covington at gcovington@whiteplainsny.gov for more information or to receive applications via email in English or Spanish. 

Workforce Development Academy for Youth (WDAY)

In partnership with the Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board, the WDAY Program (City of White Plains Youth Bureau) has offered personal, educational, and professional services to eligible youth 16-24 years of age since 2004. The professional services are guided by the federal legislative orders inherent in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). WIOA is landmark legislation that is designed to strengthen the workforce system which includes our rising young professionals.

WDAY career services are based solely on the Youth’s unique individual career goals and objectives. We work closely with our young adults to design and implement life strategies that lead to success. We take pride in providing genuine support as they work to launch their individual careers to advance and achieve financial independence.

1. 16- 24 years of age 

2. Unemployed OR Underemployed

3. Out of School (HS graduates are welcome)

4. US Citizen or Legally Authorized to Work 

5. In-need of Additional Services

1. Valid and Current Photo ID (ex. NYS Driver’s License, US Passport, etc.)

2. Social Security Card

3. Completion of ES-100 Application

  • Paid and Unpaid Work Experiences
  • Occupational Skills Certificate Training
  • Education Offered Concurrently w/ Workforce Preparation
  • Transitional Postsecondary Educational Services
  • Financial Literacy Education
  • Labor Market Information
  • Comprehensive Guidance and Training
  • Leadership Development Services
  • Support Services
  • Entrepreneurial Skills Training
  • Mentoring
  • Tutoring, Study Skills Training
  • GED/HSE and Dropout Recovery Services
  • Follow Up

The WDAY Program provides Workforce and Professional Development support by means of employment referrals and paid internships in a participant’s desired career field sector.

Program participants qualify for tuition assistance for Occupational Skills Training Programs provided by WIOA Eligible Training Providers. Providers include but are not limited to Southern Westchester BOCES, SUNY WCC, and the Westchester School for Medical and Dental Assistant.

Please contact staff for more information.

This program is FREE.

Please contact Tony Martinez at (914) 422-1378 or amartinez@whiteplainsny.gov – applications may be obtained in person by appointment only.

Youth Employment Services​

The Youth Employment Program provides youth ages 12 through 24 with opportunities to learn about the world of work through job training, life-skills development programs and full and part-time employment.

Mayor’s Youth Council

The goal of the Mayor’s Youth Council is to develop youth led activities that engage youth as leaders and decision makers.

The main target population is students that are on or above grade level. This is an extra-curricular activity that is meant to provide young people with additional opportunities and support to give them the skills they need to fully develop as leaders and decision makers. Students will have the opportunity in a non-instructional environment to develop the skills and attributes needed to be successful in life such as responsibility, integrity, critical thinking and problem solving skills. We will also focus on self-awareness, empathy, self-confidence, empowerment and self-advocacy and self-care.

The group meets weekly in the evenings, 6:00 – 7:00 pm in the Youth Bureau Computer Room.

Must be a high school student and a White Plains resident.

No. Participation is voluntary.

At this time, applications for this program are available only at the Youth Bureau.

Great Potential Program (MS & HS)

The Great Potential Program provides White Plains students in grades 7–12 with the critical thinking, study skills, and academic support needed to thrive and succeed throughout middle and high school. The program helps students develop effective learning strategies, strengthen their decision-making and problem-solving skills, and build the confidence necessary to reach their educational goals. Through meaningful guidance and support, Great Potential prepares White Plains students for a successful transition to post-secondary education, career opportunities, and productive futures.

Middle School: We currently meet on Wednesdays when there is no early release from school from 2:35 p.m. – 3:20 p.m. at Highlands Middle School.

High School: Two Mondays a month at 2:35 p.m. at WPHS

Students are typically referred by the sixth or seventh grade guidance counselors. Sometimes they are also recruited by the group leader. Students are typically referred to this program if someone believes they can benefit from being connected to a positive, active program. They should be able to benefit from belonging to our group and being exposed to different activities and community service. Students may be struggling with behavior, school, family issues, or may just be quiet or outgoing and can benefit from being involved. Once students start in middle school they automatically continue on to the high school program at White Plains High School. Oftentimes, students are in the program for 6 years.

No. Participation is voluntary.

If a student has not been referred by their school, they can contact Catherine Backes Valenzuela, 914-422-1378, cvbackes@whiteplainsny.gov, to get more information about the program. There is an application that gets completed by the parent if the child is appropriate for the program.

Applications are not available online.

Aviation Academy​

The goal of the White Plains Youth Bureau Aviation Academy is to introduce youth to the wide range of opportunities that exist in aviation and aerospace. The New York area hosts a robust aviation and aerospace ecosystem featuring top-tier educational institutions, major airline headquarters, historical museums, and corporate innovation hubs spanning aerospace engineering, airport management, and aviation technology.

Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays at the White Plains Youth Bureau.

Must be a White Plains resident and view 3 Youtube videos prior to visit. Call to make an appointment.

An application must be requested. Applications are not available online.

My Brother’s Keeper​

On August 10, 2016, Mayor Thomas M. Roach held a Press Conference on the steps of City Hall to formal announce that the City of White Plains accepted the call to action to launch the My Brother’s Keeper initiative to address the persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color and to ensure that all young people can reach their full potential. Interim Superintendent of White Plains Schools Tim Connors agreed that the White Plains School District supported the My Brother’s Keeper initiative. The My Brother’s Keeper initiative was launched by President Barrack Obama, February 2014 to improve the lifelong outcomes of boys and young men of color. Since 2014, more 250 cities across the nation have accepted the My Brother’s Keeper initiative.

To find out more about My Brother’s Keeper download our 13 page brochure.

The MBK program is offered at various locations and times depending on the activity. Please sign up for our email to receive up to date information.

Call the Program Director – Ray Tribble at 914-422-1378 for information on how you (your child) can participate. 

Girls Saturday Academy (MS & HS)

The Girls Saturday Academy offers STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and life skills instruction to participants over the course of 25 Saturdays. The MS & HS programs are designed to help girls develop an interest in STEM, connect with successful women in STEM and other professional fields, and build the competencies, skills, and academic knowledge needed to pursue high-paying careers. In addition, participants learn important core values such as respect, integrity, and responsibility.

Saturdays from October through May.

There is no fee for this program.

Registration form can be  downloaded online.

Completed registration forms should be brought to the White Plains Youth Bureau, 11 Amherst Place, White Plains, between the hours (school year) of 10 am and 6 pm, Monday through Friday.

Saturday Academy for Girls

Boys Saturday Academy (MS & HS)

The Boys Saturday Academy meets for 25 Saturdays and provides participants with opportunities to discuss current events, explore jobs and career options, hear from guest speakers, participate in college tours, and engage in community service activities. The program is designed to help young men build leadership skills, broaden their perspectives, and prepare for success in college, careers, and their communities.

Saturdays from October through May.

There is no fee for this program.

The program is open to Middle and High school boys who are residents of White Plains.

When Registration is open the form can be downloaded from this page.

Completed registration forms should be brought to the White Plains Youth Bureau, 11 Amherst Place, White Plains, between the hours (school year) of 10 am and 6 pm, Monday through Friday.

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