Hip hop dance, ballet folklorico, step dance, cooking, painting, and knitting are a few of the many after school activities that were on display at Austin Independent School District’s After-School Programs Showcase on April 28th. Over 7,000 students from 45 schools were featured in live stage performances and dynamic table displays at Kealing Middle School in central Austin. This was an event not to be missed.

Energy was high and excitement was in the air as each school took the stage at the Kealing Middle School Theater. Elementary, middle, and high school students from Austin area afterschool programs performed and displayed the projects they completed during the year. Hip hop, step, and ballet folklorico groups were among the most popular performances. The table displays were lively and vibrant as well. Many tables featured finished works of art while the nearby artists created new ones, making it engaging for kids and spectators alike. The Travis High School Cooking Club cooked up some yummy meals, while a crowd of Galindo Elementary students busily cross stitched. Attendees included many smiling parents, volunteers, teachers, afterschool program staff, community members, and afterschool advocates from across Austin.  

The After-School Showcase is presented by the Austin Independent School District’s Community Education Department in partnership with the City of Austin and Austin Interfaith. It promotes afterschool programs, boosts student morale, and illustrates how afterschool programs keep kids safe while giving them great opportunities to learn. The showcase displayed work from the Austin Prime Time Programs, Travis County Programs, and 21st Century Community Learning Center Programs.

Write to us and tell us about your city's afterschool showcase! newsletter@texas21afterschool.org

Students from Galindo Elementary School performing Ballet Folklorico: