As the summer break commences for numerous students of Chicago Public Schools (CPS), around 10,000 high school students from CPS have enrolled in After School Matters programs.
The approach taken for this summer’s programming is comprehensive, taking into account recent survey results from a large number of Chicago teens, parents and program instructors. These findings shed light on the program’s effectiveness in addressing crucial areas of requirement, such as providing safe environments, fostering a sense of belonging and connection, facilitating skill development and ensuring an enjoyable experience, among other aspects.
“Chicago teens need productive opportunities and safe spaces to connect with their peers and learn new skills that help set them up for success,” said After School Matters CEO Mary Ellen Caron. “As our city gears up for the summer season, it’s critical we engage teens from all of Chicago’s neighborhoods, especially those historically disinvested, with paid, high-quality programs where they can learn from mentor instructors, access much-needed resources, and meet new friends. After School Matters staff are actively using insights from these new survey findings to refine and innovate to continue to meet the needs of Chicago teens and our larger community – this summer and beyond.”
During the summer of 2022, After School Matters successfully shifted its focus back to predominantly in-person programming, attracting a diverse range of young individuals aged 13-24 from various neighborhoods in Chicago. To assess its effectiveness and gather valuable perspectives from the local teen community, the organization collaborated with the Praxis Institute. The evaluation process involved the collection and analysis of survey data from over 4,000 youth, as well as feedback from more than 1,000 parents/guardians and hundreds of instructors.
Key Takeaways from Summer 2022 Teen Surveys:
Despite the myriad of stressors facing young people today – increased community violence, juggling responsibilities, higher rates of mental health challenges – 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 ASM 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. Importantly, teens’ feelings of connection were linked to a greater sense of well-being and hope for the future.
○ 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 (e.g., collaboration, communication, problem-solving), with 83% reporting they have 21st century skills after participating, compared to 62% of teens before their program started.
With these findings in hand and in preparation for Summer 2023, After School Matters will:
- Continue to cultivate a sense of safety, connection, support, and community in the organization’s teaching and learning spaces
- Develop new strategies to help instructors enroll and more deeply engage teens. This includes more targeted recruitment efforts and offering instructors professional development focused on creating inclusive spaces, cultivating joy, and learning about restorative practices
- Deepen our partnership with Chicago Public Schools to help support teens academically and expand program opportunities over the summer
- Continue to provide key resources to teens, including stipends, meals, and mental health services through partnership with Adler University
- Continue to survey teens, instructors and parents about their experiences, program quality, and their unique needs at this moment in time.
“We can’t stress enough the vital role of programs that emphasize belonging and connectedness in after-school or out of school time offerings,” said Fausto Lopez, co-founder of the Praxis Institute and co-author of the study. “When young people feel a sense of belonging, when they know they are valued and included, it transforms their experience. Teen voices hold immense wisdom and insights that can shape the programs into something truly meaningful and impactful.”
Chicago teens participating in After School Matters programs this summer will earn a stipend for their participation in internships and apprenticeships in the arts, communications and leadership, sports and STEM. Programs begin June 26 and run for six weeks at locations across the city, as well as select remote options. Some programs are still enrolling, and teens interested in applying can visit afterschoolmatters.org.
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