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 share 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: Spots available
REAL at EJ Hayes: Spots available
REAL at Jessie Clark: Spots available

2024 – 2025 ESP application link

2024 – 2025 REAL application link

ESP is searching for recreation leaders for its after-school programs.

Recreation leaders are in charge of a group of elementary-aged children and are expected to monitor student behavior, program activities, and other duties as assigned.
ESP After School: Monday – Friday, 2 – 6 p.m. No weekends and up to 20 hours per week. Can work with most schedules.
Starting Pay $15.00/hr.
Contact Harold Kouns (hkouns@lexingtonky.gov) for more information.

Note: all applications must be emailed to ESPRegistration@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. 405095
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: