When families choose an after school program, they hope their children will grow, explore new interests, and experience meaningful learning. That hope is what fuels the curriculum work I do at Right At School.
For me, great curriculum begins with joy. Joy appears when a child’s curiosity sparks, when they see themselves in an activity, and when learning feels like play. I keep that feeling at the center of everything I design.
I joined Right At School more than 12 years ago as a program manager, and that experience shaped how I write today. I know how it feels to guide a room full of energetic kids and to adjust in the moment when their interests shift. That real world understanding helps me create lessons that educators can use with confidence and that children can help shape.
For me, great curriculum begins with joy. Joy appears when a child’s curiosity sparks, when they see themselves in an activity, and when learning feels like play.
Every two weeks, my team and I develop new thematic units that blend consistency with choice. We set up a structure families and schools can rely on, and we also protect space for student voice. A sudden interest in paper airplanes can turn into an exploration of aerodynamics. A simple catapult activity becomes a lesson in problem solving. Even a conversation about dung beetles can introduce ecosystems. Curiosity is often the best teacher.
Each curriculum cycle rotates art, STEM, language, and active games so children try new things without losing the freedom to follow what interests them. We also weave in durable skills such as leadership, communication, and collaboration. The junior educator program is a favorite example. Older students apply to lead activities for younger peers, which builds confidence and a sense of belonging.
The curriculum grows through constant feedback. We listen to field teams, district partners, families, and the kids themselves. When a Wisconsin district told us students needed more fine arts and music, we adapted quickly. When social emotional learning became a priority, we integrated those competencies throughout our programming.
I have felt that same spirit of care in my own journey at Right At School. The support my family and I have received reminds me to design learning that is clear, joyful, and meaningful.
My goal is simple. I want to create learning that sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and brings joy to every child. When students feel true joy, after school becomes a place where they grow in ways that last.
A simple catapult activity becomes a lesson in problem solving. Even a conversation about dung beetles can introduce ecosystems. Curiosity is often the best teacher.
