Celebrating Diversity While Strengthening Academic and Social Growth
The COMPASS Elementary program at P.S. 217 is a comprehensive, whole-child model rooted in DYCD’s longstanding commitment to youth development. Serving students from Kindergarten through 5th grade, the program is intentionally designed to support academic growth, social-emotional development, and physical well-being in a safe, engaging, and culturally responsive environment.
At P.S. 217, COMPASS goes beyond traditional instruction by integrating STEM with a strong emphasis on literacy across all activities. Students receive consistent homework help, participate in enriching arts programming, and engage in structured physical activities that promote teamwork and wellness. Nutritional education is also embedded into the program, helping students build healthy habits that extend beyond the classroom. The program operates three hours each day, five days per week, including 13 school holidays, and continues to provide meaningful learning opportunities throughout the summer.
What makes the COMPASS program at P.S. 217 especially impactful is its deep connection to the school’s diverse community. The student body represents cultures from around the world, including Haiti, Russia, the Dominican Republic, Nigeria, and the United States. This diversity is not just acknowledged—it is celebrated and fully integrated into programming.
Through activities in art, science, dance, and literacy, students explore and honor different cultures, fostering a strong sense of identity, inclusion, and mutual respect.
P.S. 217 also prioritizes lifelong learning for both students and staff. Program staff regularly engage in professional development to strengthen their skills and ensure they are creating a nurturing, inclusive, and high-quality learning environment. This ongoing investment in staff growth directly enhances the experience for students, ensuring that programming remains innovative, responsive, and aligned with best practices.
Together, these elements make the COMPASS program at P.S. 217 a dynamic and supportive space where students are empowered to learn, grow, and thrive—both inside and outside of the classroom.
Enrichment Activities
Enrichment Activities
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Program Leadership
Ariel Zitirin
Ariel Zitrin has been with FDC for less than a year and brings over 10 years of experience in youth development. Her passion for working with young people was inspired by her own experiences in afterschool programs as a child—experiences that left a lasting impact and motivated her to give back to today’s youth. She firmly believes that investing in young people leads to stronger, more equitable communities.
Ariel holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Stony Brook University and a Master’s Degree in Youth Studies from the CUNY School for Professional Studies. After graduating, she began working for the same organization she had participated in as a young person, solidifying her commitment to this work and confirming her sense of purpose.
She is deeply proud of the work she has done with youth and remains committed to empowering young people to build confidence, resilience, and the skills needed to navigate challenges and pursue their goals. Ariel also prioritizes supporting families by building trust, providing resources, and fostering environments where young people can thrive. Ultimately, she strives to contribute to stronger, more connected communities where both youth and families feel valued and supported.
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