Back to School—Going Beyond the Classroom

One of the great things about being a teacher is getting to know a class of students at the beginning of the year. Learning about each individual’s likes, dislikes, needs, and desires are all a part of the ritual of building a positive rapport. Once everyone is set on the path of becoming a working, functioning group of learners, how do we continue to support individual growth and development? Also, how do we ensure our kids are building self-confidence in their particular areas of interest? In addition to providing opportunities for learning choices (i.e., literature, writing, organizational strategies, problem solving, inquiry) in the classroom, offering afterschool activities that appeal to areas of interests can be rewarding experiences for many of our pupils. Ideas for designing and structuring afterschool activities are endless, however one goal remains constant: that our kids know there is a place for each and every one of them and that they’re an important piece of the school community.

Survey Student Interests

Discovering learners’ areas of interests is the most direct path to forming afterschool clubs and activities. Surveys are a straightforward and easy approach to finding such information. Using online or paper/pencil surveys are both effective options, depending on resources and time. A free and easy-to-use online survey tool is Survey Monkey. No matter which type of survey you use, common elements should include discovering what your group of kids is interested in learning, activities they would love to be a part of, as well as days and times they are willing to gather. This information will determine which clubs to form, and the appropriate structure of each.

Creating the Dream Club

Just imagine, after the all the work it takes to organize times, location, and permission for afterschool activities, eager and excited students make their way to the first meeting. Everyone participates, everyone feels like they belong. This is the goal, but how do we make it happen? The following are suggestions to create a great experience for all afterschool club members:

• Parent/Guardian Permission: Collecting permission for afterschool activities and clubs is mandatory, and it gives the coordinator useful information in case of an emergency.

• Establish Ground Rules: This, perhaps, is the most important aspect of creating a successful group. On the first day, have non-negotiable rules and procedures ready to present as well as explanations that allow members to understand their importance. Then, have the members create and vote on the remainder of the procedures and rules. This allows everyone to have an equal voice in creating a positive environment.

• Think Outside the Box: Not all activities have to take place afterschool. In fact, before or during the school day might be the perfect time for certain activities/clubs to meet. This can allow kids who are involved in other afterschool activities to participate. Lunchtime is also another great time to meet, and can help those students who have a tough time fitting in find a place to feel at ease.

Existing Organizations and Competitions

There are several existing organizations that schools can sign up to join—some local and some national. From clubs to competitions, there is truly something for everyone. Here is a list of organizations that welcome schools to join. One benefit of joining an existing organization is the availability of resources to organize and structure a club. Here are a few national organizations that welcome school membership:

• Future City Competition: This is a national competition focusing on students’ math, engineering, and science skills. The objective is to create a future city that solves some kind of engineering challenge.

• 4H Projects: Contact your local 4H headquarters and learn about projects that are worthy of an afterschool meeting. The variety of projects and resources available through the local programs are astonishing.

• The President’s Challenge: This is a youth fitness program that encourages kids to live a healthy, active lifestyle. There are great resources as well as prizes awarded to participants.

More Ideas:

Analyzing New York Times Design, Designing Databases, Growing with Others, Kids on the Grow