YMCA of the Pines recently announced a leadership change at School’s Out, the organization’s before-and-after-school childcare program. Becca Gutwirth of Medford has been named the School Age Childcare Director, replacing MaryAnn Birchler, who left to pursue another career opportunity.
Gutwirth earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from Skidmore College and a master’s degree in sport and recreation administration from Temple University. Furthermore, she holds teaching certifications in elementary education, mathematics and science and she is also certified as a teacher of students with disabilities. Most recently, she was a special education teacher.
“Becca was selected after an extensive candidate search and interview process,” said Greg Keresztury, Director of Operations at YMCA of the Pines.
“She’s already done great things since joining our organization in January as the Program & Curriculum Coordinator for School’s Out,” he said. “Becca’s background and experience will be immensely valuable to our School’s Out staff, as she’ll be able to provide additional guidance on how to balance and meet the needs of the students within our programs.”
Gutwirth has worked as both a curriculum and assessment writer with various publishing companies, and was a curriculum coordinator in an elementary and middle school setting.
“She has already implemented positive changes to the School’s Out program, and she has a fantastic vision for the program,” Keresztury said. “We’re excited to work with her to bring that vision to fruition.”
YMCA of the Pines operates School’s Out in the Medford, Medford Lakes, Tabernacle and Shamong school districts, providing before-and-after-school care at individual school sites. The program is especially beneficial to working parents, who have the option to sign their children up for two days to five days a week, or as “drop-in” participants for special occasions. Site supervisors in the School’s Out program develop monthly lesson plans that include age-appropriate educational and recreational activities as well as homework assistance.
Also, when schools are closed for holidays or winter/spring breaks, School’s Out at Camp is offered, providing a safe and adventurous childcare experience at YMCA of the Pines’ 800-acre property, located at 1303 Stokes Road in Medford.
Gutwirth said she is pleased to be working at YMCA of the Pines, which is a short distance from her Medford home.
“It really feels like a good fit. This position will allow me to utilize the skills I’ve honed in my university coursework and in my previous work experience,” Gutwirth said. “I’m looking forward to learning the personality of each of our sites and working with staff to provide the most enriching environment for our students.”
She added, “As a local resident, I’m also excited for the opportunity to provide creative and active programming for our students and their families, many of whom are my neighbors!”
When she’s not working at YMCA of the Pines, Gutwirth volunteers with the Shawnee Marching Band Parents Association. She has served as a youth sports coach and a Special Olympics coordinator. She’s also a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) member and is certified in CPR for the professional rescuer.
YMCA of the Pines is also home to summer camps Ockanickon (for boys), Matollionequay (for girls) and Lake Stockwell Day Camp.
To learn more about the School’s Out program or to contact Gutwirth directly, email [email protected], or call 609.654.8225, ext. 1520.
