IDEA Public Schools is celebrating Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week, April 21-25, 2025, along with the National AfterSchool Association, to recognize, appreciate, and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours.
Team & Family After School
Across our campuses in Texas, Florida, and Ohio, IDEA’s Afterschool programs provide students with enriching opportunities to explore their interests, build skills, and connect with their community. Pavel Garcia, Folklorico instructor from IDEA North Mission emphasizes the importance of learning about the region’s culture and history.
“I teach folklórico because every step, every turn, and every stomp carry the heartbeat of our ancestors,” Mr. Garcia said. “Through dance, I honor our past, celebrate our culture, and inspire the next generation.”
Marz Gamez, a junior at IDEA North Mission College Prep, says the experience has deepened their connection to their lineage.
“I joined folklórico to reconnect with my roots and rich cultural heritage,” Gamez shared. “Through dance, I feel a deep sense of belonging and pride in my identity.”
At IDEA Elsa College Prep, drumline instructor Raul Valdez knows that the afterschool program teaches more than the drills and cadences students learn in his class.
“I believe in what drumline can teach, not just musically, but in life – discipline, teamwork, and resilience,” Valdez said.
Even his students are surprised with what they have been able to accomplish through his lessons. Bass drummer Kendra Bravo shared she noticed the difference.
“I never thought I would become part of such a high-energy program, but drumline has allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and form better connections with my friends,” Bravo said. “We support each other like a team.”
Afterschool professionals at IDEA Public Schools are the heart of IDEA campuses after the final bell. You can find them leading classes with passion and dedication to their craft. For our dedicated students, they appreciate learning from experts in their field.
“If I could be here every single day, I would,” IDEA Robindale Academy student Laura Urquieta said. “I love our instructor’s choreography and how the dances are so sharp and sassy.”
Dance instructor Enya Castillo owes her joy of teaching to her students.
“Every time my students accomplish something or express that they want to continue dance in the future, they remind me of why I love teaching dance,” Ms. Castillo said.
“Research shows that skilled and knowledgeable program staff are the backbone of program quality and are key to desired positive youth outcomes,” Kennedy Stonehawk, Managing Director of Out of School Program Time (OSPT) in the Rio Grande Valley, said.
To learn more about OSPT at IDEA, visit our website and find a campus near you.
Interested in attending an IDEA campus? Apply today for the 2025-26 school year at www.ideapublicschools.com/apply.
