Our Model

Ladder of Opportunity

In creating a network of out-of-school opportunities, After School Matters offers three main program models: clubs, apprenticeships, and internships. Collectively, this structure is known as the “Ladder of Opportunity.” Teens can start on any “rung” as long as they have the requisite skills, commitment, and maturity.

Clubs

Clubs are programs without attendance requirements that cover areas as diverse as environmental stewardship, automotive care, architectural design, and creative writing. Teens participating in clubs socialize with their peers and explore new interests in safe, structured environments.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are the core model of After School Matters and are programs in which teens receive stipends while learning marketable skills in a professional atmosphere from industry experts. The instructor-to-student ratio is 1:15, and the ideal program incorporates two instructors working with 30 teens. Most apprenticeships last 90 hours over ten weeks during the school year and 135 hours over six weeks during the summer. 

Apprenticeships mirror real jobs in many ways. Prospective teen apprentices must fill out applications, interview with After School Matters staff, and maintain professional standards of attendance, conduct, and dedication. The professional concepts developed in these programs provide teens with the maturity and knowledge to enter the workforce. Some programs, such as our lifeguard and baseball officiating programs, certify teens for possible summer jobs with our public partner, the Chicago Park District.

Some teens start in pre-apprenticeships. These introductory programs focus on critical workplace skills and provide opportunities to explore a variety of careers within a field.

Our most skilled and mature teens can refine their abilities in advanced apprenticeships. These intensive programs have more rigorous demands of dedication and quality, slightly higher stipend payments, and more sophisticated and ambitious final projects. Such projects include professional performances, technology services, and the creation of public or private artwork.

Internships

Internships are specialized work opportunities for skilled teenagers to work in business, government, or non-profit organization where they will refine their critical workplace skills and put the professional skills learned in apprenticeships to the test.