After School Is a Busy Place at Clairemont High

Clairemont High's after-school program students showcased their art work, programs and other activities during the school's recent Lights On Afterschool event.

Part of a nationwide effort, Clairemont High's celebration was organized by two student groups: : YOU (Youth Opportunities Unlimited), the name of Clairemont’s 21st Century ASSETs after school program; and the Council of Braves, a diverse group of student representatives that meet monthly to review proposals for new activities, discuss challenges, brainstorm solutions, develop marketing strategies and plans for after school events.

Gallery displays included pieces from clubs such as Painting with the Experts, Environmental Art, Photography, FabLab Graphic Design, Shots in Time, and Costume Design. Performances by Theatre Alive and True Movement Dance clubs from the musical Footloose were a hit with event attendees. A routine by the Cheer Squad helped to elevate the already high spirits of the students involved. A locker painting contest brought out the individual student diversity at the school and brightened up the hallways. Prizes were given for the most original, most expressive, most artistic, best of show, and people’s choice. A special prize for the YOU student choice was given after the entire student body had had a chance to vote.

Funding for after school clubs/events at Clairemont is supported by a 21st Century ASSETs (After School Safety and Enrichment for Teens) grant extended day learning opportunities for additional career explorations, credit recovery and enrichment activities for high school students. The 21st Century ASSETs grants are managed for the district by the Office of College, Career and Technical Education.

The nationwide Lights On Afterschool event started in October 2000 when children, parents, grandparents, educators, community leaders, policy makers, celebrities and others come together to show their support for after-school programs. These groups gather at schools, community centers, parks, malls, state capitols and elsewhere to rally for the programs that help working families, keep kids safe, and inspire them to learn. Since its inception, this nationwide rally for after school has grown to include more than 7,500 events across the country and at U.S. military bases worldwide. Lights On Afterschool is the only nationwide rally for after-school programs.

For more information about the after-school clubs and event at Clairemont High, please contact Martha Corrales at mcorrales@sandi.net.