Kids Quest

Strengthening families with affordable, supportive programs.

Kids Quest programs provide before and after school care in several Topeka Public Schools grade school locations. For more information about our programs please call (785)233-1750.

2025-2026 Enrollment Details↘

Open Enrollment for YWCA’s Kids Quest program runs July 7–21, 2025!

This year, we’re limiting each school site to 30 students to ensure a high-quality, safe, and enriching experience for every child. Smaller group sizes mean more personalized learning, better supervision, and exciting hands-on programming — especially in STEM and other enrichment areas.

Enrollment is not first come, first served. If we receive more than 30 applications at a site, a lottery system will determine placement.

You Asked. We Listened.

We heard your feedback and we’re making enrollment easier than ever. This year, most of the open enrollment process can now be completed online. We have condensed the application for less paperwork, and more convenience.

What You’ll Need to Submit for Each Student:

1) Enrollment Form - One per student. All sections must be completed.

2) Child Health History Form - Required by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Form MUST be signed on the bottom of page 2. Completed form can be scanned and emailed to youthservices@ywcaneks.org.

3) Authorization for Emergency Medical Care Form - Required by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. This form is specific to each school location. Be sure to download and submit the form that corresponds with your child’s school. Form MUST be signed to be considered valid. Completed form can be scanned and emailed to youthservices@ywcaneks.org.

-Jardine Elementary School form

-McCarter Elementary School form

-McEachron Elementary School form

-Meadows Elementary School form

-Whitson Elementary School form

**If you need assistance completing the forms, we are here to help! For questions about enrollment, please call Robin Meseke at 785-233-1750.**

  • Locations:

    Jardine Elementary

    McCarter Elementary

    McEachron Elementary

    Meadows Elementary

    Whitson Elementary

  • Hours

    BEFORE CARE

    Mon-Thur: 7:00 am – 8:10 am

    Fri: 7:00 am – 9:10 am

    AFTER CARE

    Mon – Fri: 3:40 pm – 5:30 pm, snack and milk provided

    *View below for scheduling details

  • Rates

    AM only: $45 p/week

    PM only: $70 p/week

    AM & PM: $115 p/week

  • Enrollment Fee

    $20 per child

    $30 per family (2 or more children)

    How to make a payment with DCF funds

Fun, Creative, Supportive

YWCA Northeast Kansas is committed to fostering resilience, creativity, and positive relationships, while honoring each child’s dignity and individuality.

“I really enjoy the after-school program because it’s a space where I can be myself. I can relax and be creative.”

Program Information

What can my child and I expect during the school year?

Homework Assistance

Each day students in Kids Quest have designated time for academic work. Students receive guidance for homework assignments while those without school work are involved in enrichment activities.

Child & Adult Care Food Program and After School Snacks

Kids Quest also offers a snack each day to students in the after school program. We strive to provide students with a healthy option including fresh fruits and vegetables. All snacks adhere to the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)

Each Kids Quest before and after school program is dedicated to incorporating STEM+ into their weekly activities.

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)

Each Kids Quest before and after school program is licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. All programs have annual licensing compliance reviews to ensure the children are safe and properly cared for in a healthy environment. Information on the Kansas Department of Health and Environment licensing for School Age Programs.

Schedule Details: Kids Quest follows the USD 501 Topeka Public Schools Schedule

For closings and schedule changes, please consult the USD 501 school calendar and inclement weather announcements. When USD 501 schools are closed, Kids Quest before and after care are closed. For delayed starts, before care is closed only. For early release days, after care is closed only.