Afterschool Programs
STAR/PAL’s after-school programs provide a safe, structured environment for middle and high school students during the critical hours after school. These programs are designed to support academic success, promote positive decision making, and strengthen personal responsibility while fostering healthy relationships between youth and law enforcement.
Operating out of the STAR/PAL Youth Center, the programs focus on personal growth, leadership development, and academic support. Students are encouraged to build confidence, improve communication skills, and develop habits that contribute to long-term success in school and in life.
Program Schedule and Structure
Programming is available to both middle school and high school students and includes mentoring, tutoring, and leadership development opportunities.
Each program is structured to meet students where they are developmentally while reinforcing accountability, teamwork, and positive behavior in a supervised setting.
STAR/PAL’S Youth Center is open
TUESDAY – THURSDAY from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
WE CAN
Tuesday
Making Changes
Thursday
We Can
The WE CAN program is a mentoring initiative designed specifically for middle school students in grades six through eight. Facilitated by law enforcement officers, the program focuses on helping students develop self-awareness, strengthen decision-making skills, and build confidence.
Through guided discussions, interactive activities, and group engagement, participants learn how their choices affect their future, their relationships, and their community. The program also encourages students to explore leadership and civic responsibility in age-appropriate ways.
Tutoring
STAR/PAL offers weekly tutoring sessions for both middle and high school students who need additional academic support. Tutoring is provided by interns from Point Loma Nazarene University who assist with homework, assignments, and school projects.
Students attending tutoring sessions have access to laptops during program hours, helping ensure they have the tools they need to complete their work successfully in a supportive environment.
Making Changes
The Making Changes program is designed for high school students and focuses on leadership development and real-world life skills. Participants engage in activities centered on communication, public speaking, financial literacy, and community involvement.
This program encourages students to think critically about their goals, take responsibility for their actions, and understand the impact they can have within their schools and communities. Emphasis is placed on preparing students for adulthood through positive choices and personal accountability.
Benefits of STAR/PAL After-School Programs
STAR/PAL’s after-school programs help students strengthen academic performance, develop leadership and communication skills, and build trust with positive adult role models. Participants benefit from a structured and supervised environment that promotes personal growth, community engagement, and healthy peer relationships.
By participating consistently, students gain skills and experiences that support long-term success both inside and outside the classroom.
Registration and Participation
Families interested in enrolling their students in STAR/PAL’s after-school programs are encouraged to register in advance. Space may be limited, and participation helps ensure students have access to consistent support, mentorship, and enrichment opportunities throughout the school year.