As a superintendent we often hear, “Do you really need all those sports and activities for kids”? And my answer is usually the same “yes”.
Extracurricular activities give students access to social skills and opportunities they might not have in the confines of the school day. I really like to think of after school activities as an extension to the classroom.
One of the main benefits of extracurricular activities is giving your child a chance to explore something that piques their interests that isn't offered during traditional school hours. Kenyon-Wanamingo offers so many opportunities: Robotics,, FFA, Speech, Trap-shooting, Theatre, Music in numerous capacities and sporting activities are just a few. Coding and fishing are popular newer additions at Kenyon-Wanamingo. We have many graduates that have turned these programs into career choices or lifelong hobbies.
In elementary school it is just as important to have these offerings. K-W’s Community Education is one of the finest in the state. I see such a need for kids to have the ability to socialize and get along with others. Current after school opportunities included Crazy 8 Math and Chess Club as well as First Lego League. This is a team approach of guiding our youth through STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).
When students enter middle school, these extracurriculars become even more important. Kenyon-Wanamingo understands that this is an age where we can uncover interests that are unique to our students. Studies have shown that self-esteem is higher for kids that participate in even one activity outside of the school day. I have personally witnessed our student athletes and activity participants learn commitment, responsibility, and accountability through programs outside the school day.
In high school we know that CTE (Career and Tech Education) can teach technical skills, or “hard skills,” but also do a great job of teaching career readiness skills, or “soft skills.” These can include work ethic, time management, teamwork, problem solving and more. And offering activities and athletics that include CTE type programming is something we strive for at Kenyon-Wanamingo.
Participation in these after school programs has been linked to lower dropout rates (K-W has one of the lowest dropout rates in the state) and can contribute to a reduction in risky behaviors. Have you thought about joining an activity? Please reach out to us at https://www.kw.k12.mn.us and see all that is offered!
It is such a great day to be a Knight! Have a good idea for new programming, let’s talk. My goal is to have something for every student that enters Kenyon-Wanamingo!
