Erin Kucharski, Coordinator of the Van Buren Youth Initiative (VBYI), and Aaron Van Heest, VBISD Mental Health Clinician, represented Van Buren ISD Instructional Services Department at Out of School Time (OST) Day at the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing, MI.
Hosted by the Michigan After School Partnership (MASP), this event highlighted the power of afterschool and summer learning programs in supporting youth development and student success. Erin and Aaron, both passionate advocates for student mental health and growth, spoke with representatives from Senator Aric Nesbitt’s and Representative Pauline Wendzel’s offices about the meaningful impact of after-school efforts in Van Buren County.
Decades of research show that after-school programs improve attendance, academic performance, social skills, and reduce risky behaviors. As Erin Kucharski says, “Confidence comes from competence,” and she deeply believes that afterschool programming is essential to helping students thrive- not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well.
Although Van Buren Youth Initiative is still in its early stages, VBISD is proud to report encouraging progress, with data showing positive trends in student growth and engagement.
We are excited about the future of VBYI and remain committed to supporting opportunities for all youth across Van Buren County. Together, we are building strong, confident, and connected communities…one student at a time.
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