There are a variety of extracurricular activities offered here at Eisenhower Highschool. This gives many students the opportunity to be more involved but one look at the students participating in them shows that the same people participate in all the activities throughout. I conducted a survey for students to fill our what extracurricular activities they are involved in, if any. The results show that they aren’t motivated or are just disinterested in anything school related. This shows a bigger problem than just the lack of interest in the extracurricular activities the school offers, more so them not seeing the value.
Survey responses highlight common barriers: lack of time due to homework or jobs, transportation issues, costs, and a sense of disconnection or feeling unwelcome. Many Eisenhower students juggle personal responsibilities that make staying after school impractical. National research confirms these findings, noting that low income minority students often face extra challenges like needing to work, help at home, or feeling that activities are not inclusive (Brookings Institute). Without seeing real benefits, students may be reluctant to join.
To increase participation, Eisenhower High School can implement several key strategies. First, promoting a wider range of activities tailored to students interests gathered through monthly admin interaction with students through methods like surveys or school held student interaction events. Clubs led by students, more announcements during breakfast time and social media pages, and letting students try different activities before choosing can help. Next, afterschool programs should be easier to get to, having late buses, ride programs, or some type of equipment partnership would help solve real problems. Lastly, making clubs and sports welcoming to everyone, having teachers and other students invite people in, and letting students be recognized for their involvement can make a big difference. Even small steps to make students feel included and valued can help more students get involved and feel like they are part of something.
By understanding what is stopping students from participating and making programs easier to join. However, it can help more students find activities they care about and strengthen school. When more students join in, everyone benefits, from better friendships to higher confidence, making school a better place for all students. By getting them to engage, it will benefit them in the long run by setting them up for success. It builds their sense of belonging and gives them the skillsets they need to follow whatever career they desire.
SOURCES
How to Get Your Students to Attend Extracurriculars – Backstrom
