Michigan students benefit from after-school programs

BY KAILYN PARKS, DIYA RAMAKRISHAN, SRIJAN AGARWAL, SAHIBA KAUR AND KAMARIA GREEN

Loving something means caring about it. Just like parents take care of their kids or people look after their pets, Michigan shows it cares about its youth. You can see this in the way schools and communities offer programs to support students. After-school programs provide the chance to explore various subjects in a fun and engaging way, and they open doors to opportunities students might not have experienced otherwise. Many discover passions that could shape their futures, whether it's science, art or helping others. After-school programs help students grow, develop skills and connect, which makes them an important part of kids lives.

For example, a passion for biophysics can begin with the right opportunities, and after-school programs play a key role in exposing students to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). Many young people find inspiration through these programs by connecting with mentors and gaining hands-on experience that extends beyond the classroom. These opportunities can ignite a lifelong interest in science, leading youth to pursue fields like biophysics, oncology research and medical innovation after graduation.

STEM experience is not limited to youth with medical interests. In some cases, kids can also express themselves creatively through their after-school program by participating in activities such as Math Rocks, a puzzle created to give back by sharing the moments that sparked an interest in math for the creator as a kid.

Though after-school programs often promote academics, youth can also learn soft skills like leadership and critical thinking while building meaningful connections with other kids. Students even get the chance to take part in unique experiences such as sitting in the Michigan House of Representatives as members of the YMCA Michigan Youth in Government program. These programs teach important leadership skills and help students form lifelong friendships.

While we can't give red roses or heartshaped candy to an experience, we can show our gratitude to Michigan legislators for their ongoing support, as well as to the individuals who dedicate their time to lead such programs. These leaders make a lasting impact by providing opportunities to grow and learn in ways we'll never forget. Our experience as a whole is why we love after school.

This opinion piece was co-authored by high school students affiliated with the Michigan After School Partnership's Youth Advisory Council. Kailyn Parks and Diya Ramakrishan participate in FTC Robotics, Srijan Agarwal participates in YMCA Michigan Youth in Government, Sahiba Kaur participates in Math Rocks and Kamaria Green is involved at Mount Clemens Public Library.

This op-ed was published in the print edition of The Detroit News on February 13, 2025.