After School Matters Empowers Chicago Teens with Comprehensive Summer Programs

As the summer break commences, around 10,000 high school students from Chicago Public Schools have enrolled in After School Matters programs, designed to provide safe environments, foster a sense of belonging, and facilitate skill development. Recent surveys have shed light on the program's effectiveness, highlighting its success in engaging teens from all neighborhoods, especially those historically disinvested. The organization's CEO, Mary Ellen Caron, emphasized the critical role of these programs in setting up teens for success by providing productive opportunities, safe spaces, and access to resources.

Key Takeaways:

• After School Matters provided a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for teens to explore interests and discover passions during the summer break.
• 9 in 10 parents/guardians said the program provided a safe space for teens to go.
• 8 in 10 teens said their program provided a safe space to be themselves.
• 9 in 10 teens said they had fun in their program.
• Teens reported building strong relationships with their peers and instructors and finding a place where they belong.
• 4 in 5 teens felt connected to their peers and instructors.
• 4 in 5 teens felt like they belonged in their program.
• 87% of teens felt supported by their instructors.
• Instructors and staff provided support, structure, and content knowledge needed for teens to experience personal growth and strengthen skills.
• 92% of teens strengthened and gained confidence in their skills and abilities.
• Teens gained vital 21st-century skills, with 83% reporting they have these skills after participating, compared to 62% of teens before their program started.
• After School Matters will continue to cultivate a sense of safety, connection, support, and community in its teaching and learning spaces.
• The organization will develop new strategies to help instructors enroll and engage teens, including targeted recruitment efforts and professional development focused on creating inclusive spaces.
• After School Matters will deepen its partnership with Chicago Public Schools to support teens academically and expand program opportunities.

Statistics:

• Over 4,000 youth participated in surveys.
• More than 1,000 parents/guardians and hundreds of instructors provided feedback.
• After School Matters programs began on June 26 and ran for six weeks at locations across the city, as well as select remote options.
• Some programs were still enrolling, with teens interested in applying visiting the After School Matters website.

Sources:

• After School Matters website.
• "Chicago teens need productive opportunities and safe spaces to connect with their peers and learn new skills that help set them up for success." – After School Matters CEO Mary Ellen Caron.
• "When young people feel a sense of belonging, when they know they are valued and included, it transforms their experience." – Fausto Lopez, co-founder of the Praxis Institute.
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