Youth Development Specialists partner in the development of work stations, based on the age, developmental and academic level of the child. Stations are focused on technology, academics and the arts. The Academy currently serves children from Kindergarten through 8th grade, eventually expanding to serve youth through high school. The Academy has focused their attention on incorporating academics into daily programming and in developing community collaborations that would open new doors for the youth and their families. Services are also offered full-day during school breaks, including holiday breaks.

Dream Share assists to develop the expressive nature of students by teaching them how to articulate their thoughts through oral storytelling. This also strengthens their reading, writing and listening skills. U of I students and two staff offer weekly mentoring to the youth. Students are learning how to interview former and current community members of Jane Boyd and use the skills they learn to perform short stories in front of other students.

Jane Boyd’s 30-unit computer lab, developed with the assistance of the Rockwell REACT Center and the Rockwell Collins Retired Volunteers, allows for typing instruction, completing homework assignments and ensuring that at-risk youth have equal access to technology. The long-range goal is to expand utilization of the lab and to allow parents to develop their technological skills, thereby increasing their opportunities for employment.

• Read, Write, Ready!
  This is a program for students in 5th-8th grade. Directed by the members of Mt. Zion church, this tutoring program aims to increase both computer and reading literacy through tutoring, activities, and field trips.
   
• Green Kids
  This Earth-friendly club is a homegrown effort to raise awareness of the importance of being green. Children will participate in a variety of activities including gardening, neighborhood cleanup, recycling, field trips, meeting eco-friendly community leaders and more. It is our goal that the children in our community will gain a better understanding of our earth and the importance of protecting its delicate balance.
   
• Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts
  Jane Boyd has teamed up once again with the boy and girl scouts in the community to bring their activities to Jane Boyd. Both scouts will meet once a week at the community center.
   
• East Side Arts Academy
  We are excited for our new partnership with the Cedar Rapids East Side Arts Academy. Eastside Arts Academy provides youth with multiple opportunities to explore and excel in performing, visual and creative arts. EAA celebrates the rich diversity in our community, ensures quality instruction to all students and promotes artistic excellence in a safe, supportive and creative environment. They provide students with excellent leadership and instruction in all areas of the arts. Currently, Eastside Arts Academy has over 30 staff members who specialize in art, drama, creative writing, dance and music instruction. Programming with Jane Boyd will run October-December. Children will have to opportunity to participate in a variety of arts including a mural painting class and a junk rhythm class.
   
• Lego League
  Jane Boyd is excited to participate again in this years Lego League. This program introduces children to the fun and experience of solving real-world problems by applying math, science, and technology. Lego League is brought to you by the partnership between Lego and FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Technology) Children will build robots using Legos to solve the challenge presented to them. This years theme is Climate Connections- Building a Global Game Plan. This program is for 5th and 6th graders and requires a large time commitment. There are still 3 spots open on the team. You don't have to know anything about robots or Legos to join if your child desires to learn and enjoys working in a team environment then sign them up!