Vassar Education Collaboration

Vassar After School Team (VAST)

The Vassar After School Team (VAST) is a free after-school academic enrichment and mentoring program for Poughkeepsie Middle School students. Meeting on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays throughout the school year, VAST provides a safe, supportive environment where students receive homework assistance, individualized tutoring, mentoring, and hands-on enrichment activities.

VAST also helps prepare students for high school and Vassar College’s Exploring College program, which is offered in Poughkeepsie High School to support students throughout high school and beyond.

For Students/Parents

VAST Virtual Flyer

The Vassar After School Team (VAST) is an after-school academic enrichment and mentoring program for Poughkeepsie Middle School students. Through one-on-one and small-group mentoring with Vassar College students, scholars receive homework support, build academic confidence, and participate in engaging enrichment activities in a safe, supportive environment.

The program meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays throughout the school year. Mondays and Wednesdays focus on homework help, tutoring, and academic skill-building. When students have completed their schoolwork, they participate in enrichment activities designed to foster creativity, curiosity, and leadership. Past activities have included art, cooking, debate, theater, sports, STEM, and other hands-on learning experiences. Friday programming often features collaborations with Vassar faculty, student organizations, and community partners, providing scholars with opportunities to explore topics such as environmental education, the arts, and science through interactive workshops.

Enrollment is open to Poughkeepsie Middle School students. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program reaches capacity and families are asked to submit a new application each school year.

Interested in enrolling your scholar? Please email vast@vassar.edu.

For Vassar Students

Vassar After School Team (VAST) mentors play an important role in supporting Poughkeepsie Middle School students both academically and personally. As a mentor, you will:

  • Provide one-on-one and small-group homework help and academic support.
  • Foster a welcoming, encouraging environment that promotes learning, curiosity, and confidence.
  • Build meaningful relationships with middle school students by serving as a positive role model and trusted mentor.
  • Lead and participate in enrichment activities that help scholars explore new interests and develop important life skills.
  • Share your experiences as a college student and help young people imagine their own pathways to post secondary education and future goals.

VAST offers both paid Federal Work-Study positions and volunteer opportunities for Vassar students. Students interested in a paid position should apply through the Off-Campus Job Search on JobX when applications become available. Volunteer opportunities are also available for students who want to support local youth and strengthen their mentoring, leadership, and educational skills.

Questions?

Please email ocel@vassar.edu