Welcome to the No Excuses University at Los Penasquitos Elementary School
BLAST
Melanie Beckstrom, Director ~ 858-204-9645
Hours ~ 6:45 to 8:45 AM & following school dismissal to 6:00 PM (school days only)
Location ~ Multi-Purpose Room
BLAST, Building Leaders As Servants Today, began in 1997 and is a character-driven, extended school day program that benefits Los Pen families of limited income. It is a collaborative effort that depends on the support and generosity of committed individuals, families, churches, and businesses in our community.
The application process assesses the needs of each family but focuses especially on those who qualify for free or reduced-price meals and single parents who work and/or are in school full time. A range of reduced fees apply, depending on your family size and program usage. Partial or full scholarships may be requested.
BLAST operates both morning and afternoon sessions in the Multi-Purpose Room on campus. They are open daily from 6:45-8:45 AM and from the close of school (3:10 M/T/Th/F and 2:00 Wednesday) until 6:00 PM on days when school is in session. BLAST is closed during the summer months.
A combination of paid staff and volunteers provide a 1:15 ratio that assist students with homework and provide recreational supervision. Interactive group sessions and lots of teachable moments provide opportunities for character development and positive role modeling. Volunteers may be of high school age or older. Regularly scheduled adults submit to fingerprinting, background checks and have a current TB clearance.