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Students and staff at Battle Creek Central High School came together to march down Washington Avenue in support of afterschool programs. This event was part of the “Lights On Afterschool” campaign, which aims to emphasize the importance of keeping these programs running and investing in them for the benefit of students’ academic and personal development. The rally in Battle Creek was just one of over 8,000 similar events taking place across the country this month.

The extended learning coordinator at BCCHS, Joy Parson, explained that afterschool programs provide academic support and enrichment opportunities in a setting that goes beyond the regular classroom. Students from Northwestern Middle School, Springfield Middle School, BC STEM, and BCCHS participated in the march, along with local officials.

During the march, students carried signs with messages such as “Keep the lights on after school,” “I have the right to feel seen about my education,” and “Afterschool for all!” The director of extended learning programs for the district, Freddie McGee, emphasized the long-term impact of these programs, saying, “If we can give meaning to this enrichment, this will last a lifetime for them.” He added that afterschool programs provide students with a voice, the opportunity to engage with peers and educators, and a chance to build lifelong relationships.

Battle Creek Public Schools currently operates 21st Century Community Learning Centers that serve more than 300 children. These centers offer various activities, including homework assistance, mentoring, tutoring, and clubs focusing on subjects like robotics, coding, sports, reading, mathematics, and healthy eating. The programs aim to give students academic support while fostering their personal growth.

This rally in Battle Creek serves as a reminder that afterschool programs are crucial for the holistic development of students. By investing in these programs, communities can ensure that students receive the support they need to succeed in both their academic careers and their lives beyond the classroom.

Sources:
– Battle Creek Enquirer

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