Native American After-School Program

The fall months brought renewed energy to the AfterSchool Program as students returned to a full schedule of learning, creativity, and community engagement. In October, classrooms were refreshed with new O’odham language materials and seasonal decorations, creating a warm and welcoming environment for students as they settled into their routines. Early Education students focused on foundational skills such as shapes, numbers, colors, motor development, and pencil control, while older students participated in spirit week and fall celebrations that helped build excitement for the new quarter.

STEM learning received a boost this season with the introduction of LEGO Club, which quickly became a favorite among students in grades 1–8. The club offered a handson space for creativity, engineering, and problemsolving, and students worked together to build structures, experiment with designs, and explore new ideas. LEGO Club added a playful dimension to afterschool learning and supported the program’s ongoing commitment to STEM education.

In November, language immersion activities expanded as students practiced new I:mig phrases, greetings, and short conversations through games, songs, and storytelling. Prevention lessons led by HPC staff supported students in developing selfesteem and positive communication skills, with many students gradually becoming more comfortable participating in group discussions. Popup sports such as soccer, basketball, and capture the flag continued to be a highlight, giving students opportunities to stay active and practice teamwork after school.

December brought a series of communitycentered events that helped close the year on a joyful note. Students participated in NAAF’s Holiday Art Contest, which invited young artists to create pieces inspired by the theme “Holiday on O’odham Jewed.” The contest encouraged creativity and cultural expression, and winners received gift bundles for their work. Early Education students also took part in Friendsgiving, holiday crafts, and the Christmas Light Parade in Sells, where the float theme “Disney on O’odham Jewed” blended familiar characters with O’odham himdag. These events strengthened students’ sense of belonging and connection to their community.

Behind the scenes, NAAF staff prepared for the program’s return to San Simon School in January 2026, coordinating with school partners and planning new academic and cultural activities for the upcoming semester. All of NAAF is excited to see what else the New Year holds in store.