ESP and REAL programs

The Extended School Program (ESP) and the Recreation Enrichment and Learning Program (REAL) offer affordable, high-quality childcare. For nearly 30 years (beginning in 1993 at Stonewall Elementary), we have offered reliable after-school and summer care for Lexington's elementary and middle school students.

The ESP and the REAL programs are part of a partnership between Lexington Parks & Recreation and the Fayette County Public School system.

All staff participate in regular in-service training, receive required health tests and pass criminal background checks.

News and announcements

  • 2024 – 2025 ESP and REAL registration is now open.
     
  • ESP at Stonewall: Waitlisted
  • ESP at Millcreek: Spots available
  • ESP at Yates: Spots available
  • ESP at Garrett Morgan: Waitlisted
  • REAL at EJ Hayes: Spots available
  • REAL at Jessie Clark: Spots available
     

2024 – 2025 ESP application link

2024 – 2025 REAL application link

Note: all applications must be emailed to ESPRegistration@lexingtonky.gov.

The Extended School Program is hiring a Part-time CDL Driver with a school bus (S) and passenger transport (P) endorsement. Driver must be available when Fayette County Public Schools are not in session for seasonal breaks during the school year.    

  • Drive must have a clean driving record and pass a background check.  
  • Hours will vary per month/time of year. 
  • Drivers will be responsible for transporting children and staff for field trips. 
  • Operate a school bus in a safe and efficient manner and ensure the safety of all passengers on board
  • Maintain a clean and well-maintained bus
  • Ability to work well with children
     

For more information please call Harold Kouns at (859) 288-2929 or email questions to hkouns@lexingtonky.gov

Extended School Program (ESP)

ESP is regulated by the Kentucky Administrative Regulations (922 KAR 2:090, 2:120, and 2:280) and adheres to strict staff to student ratios. The activities offered include homework assistance along with recreation and leisure activities. ESP operates from time of dismissal (2:35 p.m.) to 6 p.m. during the school day, or 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on full day camps. Each year, students must reapply to be accepted into the programs.

The Extended School Program is currently offered at the following elementary schools:

Garrett Morgan Elementary 

1150 Passage Mound Way
Lexington, Ky. 40509
Site Phone: (859) 489-9852
Contact: Leslie Neimeier

Started: 2016 – 2017

Services offered: After school

Millcreek Elementary

1212 Reva Ridge Way
Lexington, Ky. 40509
Site Phone: (859) 489-9831
Contact: Erika Schlarb

Started: 2023

Services offered: After school

Stonewall Elementary

33215 Cornwall Dr.
Lexington, Ky. 40503
Site Phone: (859) 224-8045
Contact: Sarah Pigg

Started: 1993 – 1994

Services offered: After school, full days, summer camp

Yates Elementary

695 E. New Circle Road
Lexington, Ky. 40505
Site phone: (859) 270-7062
Contact: Leslie Adams

Started: 1996 – 1997

Services Offered: After school

Recreation Enrichment and Learning Program (REAL)

The Recreation Enrichment and Learning Program is an after school program for middle school students. The REAL program is affordable, maintains a low staff to student ratio, and offers a range of both recreational and educational activities for students. Each year, students must reapply to be accepted into the programs.

Morning session: 7 – 9 a.m. (Start of school)
Evening session: 4 – 6 p.m.

The program is currently offered at the following middle schools:

EJ Hayes Middle

260 Richardson Place
Lexington, Ky. 40509
Site phone: (859) 457-8286
Contact: Erika Schlarb

Started: 2004 – 2005 school year

Jessie Clark Middle

3341 Clays Mill Road
Lexington, Ky. 40503
Site phone: (859) 457-1960
Contact: Leslie Adams

Started: 1997 – 1998

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