When the 21st Century afterschool program at Central High School launched its new Club Hub initiative, there was excitement—but also a lot of uncertainty. Teachers weren’t sure how students would respond, and students weren’t quite sure what to expect. Some clubs soared. Others fizzled out.
But one idea quietly gained momentum and never looked back: tutoring.
Building a Culture of Support, One Study Session at a Time
From the very beginning, Central High School’s tutoring club has offered something meaningful: a safe space for students to ask questions, get help, and feel supported. But it didn’t happen overnight. That first year was full of learning—for students, staff, and program leaders. Club attendance was inconsistent, communication was tricky, and the right mix of structure and flexibility took time to find.
What happened next is a testament to what’s possible when schools, communities, and students work together,
In year two, big changes were made. The 21st Century team formed a partnership with South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, and college students began serving as tutors. The shift was immediate: high schoolers had new role models to look up to and began to envision life after graduation in a whole new way.
Aleah’s Story: A Student Turned Leader
One of the students most impacted by the program’s evolution is Aleah Thompson, a senior at Central. Last year, Aleah was one of the tutoring club’s most dedicated participants—logging more than 75 hours of tutoring support across a wide range of subjects. She worked with nearly every college tutor available and approached each session with focus and determination.
This year, Aleah is paying it forward.
Now a mentor herself, Aleah plays a leadership role in the tutoring club and spends part of her school day mentoring underclassmen in Lakota. Her impact extends far beyond academics—she models resilience, commitment, and the power of setting big goals.
And her efforts haven’t gone unnoticed.
In fall 2024, Aleah was recognized by the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology during a home football game. In front of a cheering crowd, she was presented with a star quilt and a feather—symbols of honor, perseverance, and deep respect.
A Program That Keeps Growing
The tutoring club is now one of Central’s strongest Club Hub offerings. It’s a shining example of what happens when afterschool programs evolve with intention, build authentic partnerships, and center student leadership. What started with a simple idea has grown into a meaningful program that supports academic success, personal growth, and cultural pride.
Looking Ahead
At Community and Family Services, we’re proud to support programs like these—programs that adapt, grow, and make space for student voice. And we’re especially proud of students like Aleah, who remind us that leadership doesn’t always start with a title—it often starts with a question, a study session, or an extra hour after school.
Learn more about our 21st Century Programs and how they’re building bridges between school, family, and community
