Beyond the Bell, Independence Mission Schools’ after school enrichment and care program, officially launched this month at a joyous ribbon-cutting ceremony at St. Rose of Lima Catholic School in West Philadelphia.
Backed by an extraordinary $1.8 million gift from area philanthropists, Ann Marie and Terry Horner, and designed with the support of childhood experience group, ESF, Beyond the Bell is designed to ignite young passions, further develop social and academic skills and provide a safe and nourishing environment for IMS students after the school day ends.
In its initial pilot phase, Beyond the Bell is launching within three IMS schools: St. Rose of Lima, St. Frances Cabrini and St. Thomas Aquinas. By 2027, all 14 schools across the IMS network will offer the program.
“After school programming is a natural extension of the curriculum,” said Terry Horner. “It’s such an important part of a child’s education and development. We deeply believe in it. Ann Marie and I know it’s a massive undertaking to build what effectively amounts to 14 after school programs, but if there’s one thing we’ve learned while getting to know the IMS community is that they will make it happen. We believe in them and we are thrilled to be a part of Beyond the Bell.”
“Forgive the pun, but we are beyond grateful for Ann Marie and Terry’s support,” said Gianna R. D’Angelo, President and CEO of Independence Mission Schools. “This program does so much. It offers our students a safe and enriching after school environment. It helps working parents. It’s an attractive value-add for prospective families. Thank you, Ann Marie and Terry. Thank you for believing in our mission.”
Learn more about Beyond the Bell at imsbeyondthebell.org.
