steam-oregon.academy

It is hard to state the obvious in a new way but let’s try it. First, one must define what do we mean by after school because it might not be “after”, after all. It could well be simultaneous or when there is no formal school, like during school breaks, or homeschooling.

The need is more than a replacement when there is no school, it is a complement. Why is there a need for a complement? Let’s explore.

Before we start, we need to acknowledge that teachers are doing a great job! They are, faithfully, complying with requirements given by standards in the school system. They go beyond the just necessary to a level of excellence achieved by wholehearted commitment. Many times, working more that the stated 40 hours and investing their own moneys into their students’ education. They truly deserve our recognition.

Then, how to define “after-school” education? It is difficult to define because there are many models of education that are not implicit withing the official school system even if it happens withing school buildings. In general, we may include any activity that is geared to enhancing the education of our students. These activities may have different levels of programming, from completely unprogrammed playgrounds where the only concern is the safety of the student; to programmed at the level of regular schooling. The choice for these programs is almost infinite depending on the locality and the means of the students. PDX-Parent is an excellent resource helping you find resources for your student. 

So why is there a need for “after school” programs. The first and obvious need comes when a student has special needs. When a student, as many are, need to expand their potential beyond what they get in their traditional school. One other need comes from the student particular potential, that is some cases needs to be discovered. For this student a program with a variety of exercises will provide the opportunities to explore. In this case there are science camps that function indoors or outdoors. Some are day camps; some will be camps where the student will be away from home for one night or more.

As mentioned above, teachers are doing a great job, the system is geared to educate students through engagement, and it is an important step. These days, though, students need to go beyond engagement and reach a level of empowerment. Students need to be empowered to create their future on solid ground. Meaning that their future should be successful based on an ethical practice of their passions.

Another, very important, reason is “networking” which in real life will be crucial in the wellbeing of the student. We live in a society strongly dependent on so called “soft skills” that are not necessarily part of the traditional curriculum. These skills, like being a contributing member of a team, are becoming essential today in almost any professional career. It could be said that they are now essential in all careers.

Now, you may say, what about costs? Yes, parents are concerned about this question. But parents are even more concerned about the future of their off springs, right? So, the good news is that, even costs are high, there are resources to help parents cover these costs. But most importantly, when considering the benefits of these after school programs, parents will see that the investment will pay high dividends in the future.

In a personal note, I remember my days as a Boy Scout. I remember the adventures and learning that happened in the company of my peers and guides. The bonding and camaraderie developed has marked my life deeply. I still communicate with some of them after more than 50 years!