SPOKANE, Wash. — When most people think of after-school programs, they envision traditional offerings like drama club, football or an audio-visual club. But Spokane Public Schools’ Engage IRL program has expanded the possibilities to include something unexpected: a cheese club.
That unconventional activity is just one of nearly 300 options available through Spokane County Public Schools’ Engage IRL initiative, which launched two years ago with a straightforward mission: to increase student access to community programs and reduce screen time.
The results have exceeded expectations. Since implementation, participation in after-school programs has surged from approximately 25% to 65% of students, and the academic gains are measurable across all grade levels.
Elementary-aged students are experiencing an 18-point proficiency increase in math and a 14-point increase in reading. At the secondary level, students have improved their average GPA by half a point while reducing chronic absences by 18.4%.
“We want every kid, every day, doing something outside of school, out of their home, off of their device doing something in real life,” SPS Superintendent Adam Swinyard said.
The program’s philosophy centers on building connections between students and their community while fostering a sense of belonging. District leaders recognize that structured, engaging activities after school hours create opportunities for students to develop relationships with peers and mentors, connections that extend far beyond the classroom.
“We want kids to look forward to every day. We want them to look forward to being at school, we want them to look forward to what’s going to happen after school, and that all centers around building relationships, creating a sense of belonging, and giving kids positive things to participate in,” Swinyard explained.
The district’s emphasis on in-person engagement reflects growing concerns about the effects of excessive screen time on student development. Research increasingly shows that face-to-face interaction, physical activity and hands-on learning contribute to better mental health, social skills and academic outcomes.
“We don’t want kids living their social life through a screen. We want kids living out their life in the physical environment. We know that’s what’s best for them, that’s what’s healthy, and we know those are the skills they are going to need in the future work force,” Swinyard said.
Currently, the program offers 284 activities spanning a wide range of interests, from traditional sports and arts to niche clubs like the cheese club. The district is actively working to expand this number further, with the goal of ensuring every student can find at least one activity that aligns with their individual interests and passions.
District officials are confident the program’s early success signals positive long-term benefits for students. Beyond the immediate academic improvements, they believe the relationships formed and skills developed through these real-world experiences will prepare students for success in college and careers.
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