Weekly Media Roundup: January 29, 2025

Afterschool Program Introduces West Columbia Students to Technology, The Facts (Texas)

Students at West Columbia Elementary in Texas are taking part in hands-on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) activities in the new Robocatters afterschool program, which already has a long waiting list for next year. Students in Robocatters work together to build and code robots while exploring how technology can make a positive impact on communities. “In this technology-evolving world, this will help prepare them for a job market increasingly reliant on computer programming and foster a love for learning,” teacher Shyanne Roddy told The Facts. “I feel it offers students a chance to foster critical thinking skills and problem-solving skills in a hands-on learning environment, while working collaboratively with their peers.”

Students Demonstrate Importance of After-School Programs to North Dakota Lawmakers, KXNET (North Dakota)

Last week, Bismarck students visited the North Dakota State Capitol to showcase the arts, technology, and cultural activities their afterschool programs offer. “Students demonstrated to Governor Kelly Armstrong and Superintendent Kirsten Baesler, among other lawmakers, the impact after-school programs have on them,” KXNET reported. More than 6,500 students in North Dakota benefit from afterschool programs funded by 21st Century Community Learning Centers grants.

ZGYC Launches New After-School Programs in Cedar Park & Geneva Woods Starting February, Juneau.org (Alaska)

With financial support from the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC), the Cedar Park Apartment complex and Geneva Woods Community Center will provide free afterschool programs at their neighborhood community center starting in February. “Our mission to connect youth and engage community is one that involves meeting folks where they’re at and with this program we will be able to do that quite literally. We are thrilled to have this opportunity to be a part of the day to day in these neighborhoods and grateful to AHFC for inviting us in,” said Zach Gordon Youth Center Manager Jorden Nigro. The programs will provide homework support, a variety of enriching activities, snacks and more to students ages 6 to 12. Older students are encouraged to volunteer as staff assistants.

Inaugural Pickleball Event Raises Nearly Two Thousand for Boys and Girls Club of Bangor, WFVX (Maine)

Last weekend, the Boys and Girls Club of Bangor, Maine hosted a “Paddle for a Purpose” pickleball event that raised nearly $2,000 and increased awareness about the need for afterschool programs. “We have participants out here who are supporting a great cause, they’re becoming aware of a need in the community, and they’re helping us to fulfill that need. We have some young people here today who are also learning about a new sport that some of them haven’t tried yet,” Boys and Girls Club of Bangor CEO Cat Myatt told WFVX. The Club’s afterschool programs focus on healthy lifestyles, academic support and civic engagement.