When after-school programs are out of reach, kids miss more than activities

By: Daniel Gage

Outlets: Wisconsin Examiner

Published: February 18, 2026

Words: 524

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 5 days ago

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I have visited many after-school and summer programs across Wisconsin, from large urban sites to small rural schools, and what I’ve seen has stayed with me. I’ve watched students immersed in creative writing, acting and robotics. I’ve observed staff working one-on-one with kids navigating intense emotional challenges. And I’ve seen the smiles on middle schoolers’ faces as they reconnect with trusted mentors at the end of the school day. These programs are not “extras”; they …

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