PYN Afterschool Programs Kick-off with New Schools and A Focus on STEM

The Philadelphia Youth Network (PYN) is excited to celebrate the continued growth and success of our Career Connected Learning Out-of-School Time (OST) programs this fall! These programs, taking place from 3-6pm at 7 district schools, give middle school students a chance to explore new interests, gain valuable skills, and connect what they learn in school to real-world careers in a fun, hands-on environment.

This season, we’re proud to share that PYN’s Career Connected Learning programs have expanded to three new schools - Conwell Middle, Jay Cooke and John Hancock Schools, joining Baldi, Finletter, Fitzpatrick, and Harding as part of our growing network of afterschool sites.

Across all program sites, students are engaging in hands-on enrichment activities that include homework help, sports, art, performing arts, gaming, STEM, and teambuilding. They’re also taking part in project-based career exposure experiences, where they learn about career paths, industries, and postsecondary opportunities through interactive, real-world projects.

Students have already enjoyed creative collaborations with partners like Rapping for Prevention and Walnut Street Theatre, connecting the arts with important lessons about health, self-expression, and storytelling.

Leadership development is also taking center stage this year, as we launch the PYN Afterschool Youth Leadership Council, starting at Hancock and Conwell and expanding to include members from all 7 program sites. These student-led groups will give participants the chance to practice civic engagement, shape their afterschool experiences, and strengthen their voices as leaders in their schools and communities.

Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to welcome professionals from across industries for upcoming hands-on career days, where students will get to explore different career fields and see how their interests connect to future opportunities.

Read more and get involved at www.pyninc.org/afterschool.