Lighthouse Program

Vision Statement: To provide a safe environment that complements school day learning and fosters intellectual, artistic, cultural, physical, social and emotional development of children by partnering with and supporting the efforts of family, school, and community. Children, youth, and adults will be provided opportunities to become independent lifetime learners as well as innovative, creative, and productive citizens.

Parents can register students online for a five day per week, in-person program from school dismissal to 5:30 PM.

*Registration for the upcoming summer and the 2023-24 school year program will begin during parent/teacher conferences in April. Please note there will be a change to the number of schools offering summer Lighthouse Programs this year. While your child may not be able to participate at his/her school as they have done in the past, we hope you will take advantage of the nearest neighborhood school. Our efforts this year to combine programs will allow for increased school projects, more comfortable classrooms or additional air conditioned spaces and alignment with the districts summer school program sites. Please inquire with your child's Lighthouse Coordinator in early April for more information. 

 Visit this page for all 2022-2023 Afterschool Registration Forms

Visit this page for Summer 2023 Learn Grow Play Activities Guide

The City of Bridgeport "Lighthouse Program" is an innovative school/community program sponsored by the City of Bridgeport through its Department of Youth Services, in partnership with the Bridgeport Board of Education, and nonprofit community. It receives local, state, and federal funding as well as parent fees and private donations.

The Lighthouse Program operates in 25 Bridgeport Public Schools and provides over 2,200 students daily with a safe and supportive environment after school, and during the summer. The program which operates Monday through Friday from school dismissal to 5:30 PM provides educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities to participating youth. The summer program operates for five full weeks from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM and both programs include academics that support school day learning, as well as cultural and recreational activities designed to motivate participants. Current partners in this effort include Alliance for Community Empowerment, Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Neighborhood Studios, Village Initiative Project, YMCA and a host of other nonprofits providing special activities including science, dance, art, theater, music and various sports.

Registration is ongoing throughout the year.

"Friday Night Live" After School Night Program is held at Central High School, Harding High School, and Bassick High School. Friday Night Live is every Tuesday & Thursday from 2:30-5:30 PM and Friday from 6:00-10:00 PM.

Volunteer opportunities exist at all sites. Please call (203) 576-7252 for more information.