Program Profile
Alternative Schools Network Helps Students Prepare for Careers After High School
Instituto Abayarde, part of the Alternative Schools Network 21st CCLC program, aims to provide highly relevant programming that will prepare students for postsecondary life. Activities include supporting students in completing graduation portfolios, resume and interview practice, and opportunities to participate in apprenticeships and internships with partner organizations.
News from the Field
TFD 215's Rebel Robotics Team Learns Engineering, Programming, Strategy, and More
Last year, the Thornton Fractional High School District (TFD) 215 21st CCLC program launched a robotics team at its South High School site. In addition to building and programming a winning robot, the team defeated some of the more experienced teams in their league and won rookie of the year their first year. This year they placed second in their league.
Bringing Controversial Books Into the Classroom
Thousands of books address contemporary issues that young adults face, and many provide a way for students to engage in difficult conversations about these issues. These books are not without challenges, however, as many are controversial or challenged as reading material. This blog post from Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Usable Knowledge blog describes ways that educators can use controversial books to create a safe space for students. Suggestions include thoroughly researching a book before introducing it, making a case for the book's inclusion, and communicating with stakeholders about your plans and how students will benefit from reading the book.
Collaborative Mentoring Webinar Series
MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership (MENTOR) hosts an ongoing webinar series on collaborative mentoring. Recent topics include strategies for ongoing mentor training and ways to maximize volunteer engagement. The webinars are held on the third Thursday of every month, and past events are archived online.
Supporting Positive Youth Development in Afterschool
A new white paper from Child Trends, the Claremont Evaluation Center (CEC), and LA’s BEST examines the role of afterschool programs in positive youth development. The paper explores a common approach to three important youth outcomes: substance misuse and abuse, problem behaviors, and academic performance.
Important Dates and Events
Grants and Other Opportunities
The Power of Youth Challenge is an opportunity for youth ages 13–18 to bring positive change to their community through local service. Sponsored by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, America’s Promise Alliance, and Peace First, the challenge provides participating teams with coaching and minigrants of up to $250 to achieve their project goals. Project teams must include at least three youth, and applications are due on March 31. Learn more on the Peace First website.
Join Us Online
Do you have a question for your afterschool colleagues? Would you like to know what’s going on in other Illinois 21st CCLC programs? Join the Illinois Quality Afterschool Facebook Group.
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