Choosing the Right Afterschool Program for Your Teen

Finding a program that meets your family’s unique needs is important. As teens grow, they need more than just a place to go after school—they need a space they can thrive. The ROCK Out-of-School Time offers a dynamic, supportive environment for teens that fosters growth, leadership, and connection. 

Here’s why The ROCK could be the perfect fit for your family:

Every teen deserves a mentor who listens, guides, and inspires. At The ROCK, mentorship is woven into the fabric of the program. Caring adults and peer mentors provide consistent support, helping teens navigate challenges, set goals, and build confidence. It’s about more than academics—it’s about growing into who they want to be.

Teen years can be stressful, and The ROCK recognizes the importance of mental and emotional wellbeing. The program offers wellness activities like mindfulness, yoga, and building self-awareness through Discover You™ activities. It’s a safe space where teens can be themselves, decompress, and feel supported.

At The ROCK, teens don’t just learn—they create, build, and innovate. The program offers hands-on STEM experiences that spark curiosity and develop critical thinking skills. Whether it’s metal casting with the Saginaw Foundry Society, 3D printing with the Michigan State University Midland County Extension, or exploring the labs at Delta College, teens are encouraged to experiment and try new things in a fun, low-pressure setting.

One of the most exciting aspects of The ROCK is its student-led clubs. Teens are given the freedom to start and lead clubs based on their interests—whether it’s art, theater, gaming, sports, or entrepreneurship. This not only builds leadership skills but also gives teens a sense of ownership and pride in their community.

The ROCK isn’t just an afterschool program—it’s a third space for teens to build their community. Teens connect with peers from different backgrounds and build relationships that extend beyond the classroom. The ROCK fosters a sense of belonging and engages teens in service projects, like making blankets for community members experiencing homelessness.

The ROCK offers high-quality afterschool programs to meet students where they are at across the region. We operate at Jefferson, Northeast, and Meridian middle schools as soon as the school day ends, with no transportation needed. Our Delta College location serves youth from all across the Great Lakes Bay Region, and we partner with regional transportation providers to make access easy.

Choosing the right afterschool program for your teen is about more than convenience—it’s about finding a place where they can grow, lead, and feel seen. The ROCK Out-of-School Time offers all that and more, blending academic enrichment with emotional support and community connection. All of our afterschool program sites are state-licensed, so parents can feel confident knowing your teens are in good hands when the school day ends.

If you’re ready to learn more, or to see if The ROCK is a fit for your teen, we encourage you to join us for a week of summer camp to see what our program has to offer! You can find more information or sign up to join us here.