The city of Chicago recently made news with their award-winning after school programs meant to keep kids busy with learning and fun during the often long and otherwise lonely after school hours. Long term studies found that involved kids were more likely to have better grades, go on to graduate and were generally more successful than their non-involved counterparts.
While news outlets focus on city school systems, it seems noteworthy that our own small town of Franklin, MA offers many impressive after school learning and enrichment programs for both middle and high school students. Many residents and newcomers have expressed surprise at the extensive selection of offerings.
Did you know that Franklin youth can:
*enjoy weekly afternoon/evening Ski Club at Wachusett Mountain
*create an art-related community project to benefit the citizens of Franklin through Art Club
*organize and run fundraisers like a coat drive through the Communiteen Club
*get caught up on homework with friends at the Homework Club
*mountain bike in the Franklin State Forest with the Adventure Club
*tweak computer skills with friends at Computer Club
*build a rocket ship at Lego Club
*participate in ultimate Frisbee or weight training at Fitness Club
*learn about theater or film production at Drama Club
*play music in the Rock Band Club
*expand awareness of disabilities and make new friends through Best Buddies Club
*learn healthy choices, have fun and take risks without drugs or alcohol through Proud to Be Club
*defend a point of view through Mock Trial Club
These are only a fraction of the groups and clubs for Franklin youth. There are also extensive sports offerings as well and many youth take advantage of a little of everything. No longer does a teen have to sit at home bored after school when there are so many other options available.