The Bancroft Learning Lab is an after school program sponsored by the PTO which allows students to sign up for fun and enriching after school classes of interest to them. Courses are taught by parents, community business leaders, and some staff. Most classes run between six and eight weeks, and all are held at Bancroft.
Where are learning labs held?
All learning labs are held at Bancroft.
Who teaches learning labs?
Parents, teachers, and community business leaders teach the classes.
How long do learning labs run?
There are two learning lab sessions: fall and spring. Most learning labs run 6-8 weeks. The specifics of each lab are in the learning lab catalog that comes out a few weeks prior to signups.
My child missed a class or joined the session late, can the fee be prorated?
No, unfortunately we are unable to prorate for any missed sessions.
Can students join learning labs mid session?
This is dependent on availability and permission from the learning lab instructor. The rate is not prorated for any late starts. All labs must be paid in full.
Who escorts the children to their learning lab?
Parents can choose to walk their children in for morning learning labs or are welcome to drop off at the front door if the child knows where they are going. Instructional Assistants will be present to help guide children. For afternoon sessions, instructional assistants will lead children from their classroom to their learning lab location.
Is there an adult with the children at all times?
Yes. Children will not be left alone. Instructors will stay with children until it is time for morning recess or until they are picked up from sessions.
My child no longer wants to attend a learning lab, can I receive a refund?
We are able to process refunds before the session starts. No refunds can be given once the session has begun.
I missed the deadline for signups, can my child still join?
This is subject to availability and permission from the learning lab instructor.
Are learning labs a fundraiser for the PTO?
No. The course fees are paid to the learning lab instructors and cover administration fees.
Will my child need to bring any materials to the learning labs?
No, all materials will be provided by the instructors unless otherwise stated in the catalog. Please wear appropriate clothing for the learning lab you selected. (i.e. wear sneakers for sports related labs.)
Will students from all grades K-5 be in the same learning labs?
The catalog will list which grades are eligible for each lab. Some labs will be only for younger grades, some will be for older grades, and some will be for all grades.
Who should I speak to if I encounter an issue with a learning lab?
Depending on the issue you may contact the lab instructor or the learning lab parent volunteers: Amy Hamilton (amy@thewesternshore.com) and Christina Baker (Christina.Baker13@gmail.com).
Does the Bancroft PTO fund any portion of the learning labs or offer financial aid?
The PTO offers scholarships to any students in need if they wish to participate in a learning lab. Please contact Amy Hamilton (amy@thewesternshore.com) and Christina Baker (Christina.Baker13@gmail.com) for more information.