Thanks to funding from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, Preventionfocus has had the privilege of facilitating an Advantage After-School Program for the last three years.  This year, the program at the Buffalo Academy of Science Charter School on Franklin Street was the most successful so far.  The program, under the direction of coordinator Dave Mussen, saw a 92% increase in average daily attendance over the course of the school year. 

The growth in student participation didn’t happen by itself.  After-school programs that take place inside school buildings have to fight against a student’s natural desire to leave when the final bell rings.  So, homework help and arts & crafts are often not enough, especially with seventh through twelfth graders.  An anonymous informal survey was developed to learn what activities would entice students to attend.  Overwhelmingly, the students reported an interest in music and athletics.  A Nintendo Wii Fit game system was purchased to address those interested in athletics while dealing with the confines of somewhat limited space.  In addition, the purchase of MixCraft software enabled students to create music and interface with Microsoft Movie Maker in the schools Computer Lab.  Increased awareness of the additions to the program was achieved by meetings with parents, a laptop raffle, postcards mailed to the homes of all students, advertising inside the school, and word-of-mouth promotion from numerous faculty members. 

None of these strategies could have been employed without the strong support of the faculty and administration at the school.  Preventionfocus thanks Ms. Gillison, Ms. Harris, Ms. Marszalek, Mr. Diakos, and the school director Mr. Unlusoy, who all made major contributions to the program’s success. 

The increased attendance is also proof of a job well done by the Teenfocus Department staff members who facilitate the activities of the program.  An even better 2010-2011 school year is expected.  For more information on after-school or other Teenfocus programs, contact Dave Mussen at 884-3256, ext. 229 or dbmussen@pfocus.org.