Spotlight on Eisenhower Afterschool: Building Brighter Futures through Community and Enrichment
At Eisenhower Elementary in Green Bay, an afterschool program is making a big difference for kids through its dynamic blend of academic support, creative enrichment, and strong community partnerships. This 21st Century Community Learning Center is a collaborative effort between the Green Bay Area Public Schools and the YMCA of Greater Green Bay. Offered free to all students at the school, it’s a shining example of how afterschool programming can extend learning beyond the classroom and connect students with their community.
According to Samantha Gerzcak, the program’s experienced coordinator, this partnership blends structure and creativity in powerful ways. “We integrate the Y’s core values with district guidelines and our federal grant to provide kids with an experience they might not otherwise have,” she explains.
Enriching the Afterschool Experience
One of the key elements that sets Eisenhower apart is its commitment to offering enrichment activities that go far beyond simply providing a safe space for kids after school. The program features a wide array of clubs and field trips designed to spark new interests. From art and academics to sports and theater, children are encouraged to explore their passions in an engaging environment.
Samantha notes that the program offers unique opportunities like visits from the National Railroad Museum, Evergreen Theater, and others. “Last month, we had 10 kindergarten and first-grade students learning to play piano keyboards with Jim’s Music,” she shared. “Many students would not have these opportunities without the program.”
Thanks to the YMCA partnership, students also benefit from swimming lessons and a free week at Camp U-Nah-Li-Ya—opportunities that wouldn’t be possible if the school district ran the program alone. These activities offer more than fun and learning; they promote personal growth and meaningful community engagement.
Community and Collaboration at Its Core
Community involvement is a cornerstone of the Eisenhower Afterschool Program. The district places high value on local partnerships, making community engagement an essential part of the 21st Century Community Learning Center model. “The district likes to see that we have community involvement right in the process of this program,” says Samantha, reflecting the program’s commitment to local collaboration.
This collaborative spirit extends to the staff as well. Many afterschool educators are YMCA employees who are also students at St. Norbert College or UW-Green Bay. This dual role deepens their engagement with kids and creates a unique mentorship dynamic.
Micah, a UW-Green Bay student working in the program, shared his appreciation: “I really enjoy the program... and I thoroughly enjoy Sam, what she's done as a boss. She's a really good leader.”
Fostering Student Growth
Beyond the wide-ranging enrichment activities, the program also prioritizes social-emotional learning and academic support. Culturally responsive programming and learning tools like DreamBox ensure that students receive a well-rounded educational experience.
Strong, respectful relationships between staff and students are at the core of the program’s success in addressing behavioral challenges. The team focuses on patience, trust, and consistent guidance to help kids grow.
Micah reflected on how his work in the program has shaped him personally. “Working in this job has helped me learn a lot in terms of patience and how to work with children over several months to help students develop more positive behaviors,” he said. These lessons, he notes, go far beyond academics—they’re life skills that last.
Looking Toward the Future
The Eisenhower 21st Century Community Learning Center is more than just a place for homework help and fun—it’s a hub of innovation, connection, and community spirit. As the program continues to evolve, it stands as a model for how afterschool programming can support academic success while fostering emotional and social development.
With passionate leaders like Samantha and dedicated educators like Micah leading the way, Eisenhower is paving a path toward a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive. This program is a powerful reminder that afterschool hours can be a time not only for learning—but for building brighter futures.
