RYS During Covid 19

Our Rural Youth Services educators normally spend their time providing free in-person enrichment programs for youth in the schools. Due to closures associated with Covid 19 this spring, the activities that they had planned to offer in-person at middle schools in Dryden, Freeville, Ithaca, Groton, Lansing and Trumansburg school districts were redesigned and delivered online via Zoom.

On July 13th, free summer RYS programs begin, with the initial three weeks of planned activities to include nature programs, photography, hiking, a craft program, and a cardboard boat competition. Program descriptions are below; please note that programs have different start  dates and lengths.

A new format for these programs will combine online and in-person sessions. 

To help ensure the safety of participants, a parent or guardian must complete a permission form for each program.

Last updated September 29, 2026