Henderson County Schools highlights 'Class to Club' partnership with Boys & Girls Club
Summary
District and Boys & Girls Club leaders described a program that places staff half-time in classrooms and half-time at club sites to provide tutoring, mentoring and translation supports; presenters said the in-school program touches about 300–370 students daily and the club serves up to 90 children, free to families.
HENDERSON COUNTY, N.C. — Henderson County Public Schools and the Boys & Girls Club presented a closer look at their Class to Club partnership at the school board meeting on Nov. 10, saying the program blends in‑school academic support with after‑school mentoring.
"Our mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential," Jessica Riley, director of programs at the Boys & Girls Club, told the board. She said Class to Club places staff so that "half of their day is spent in Henderson County Public Schools, and then the other half of their day is spent at the Boys and Girls Club with us," allowing staff to use district pacing guides and coordinate with instructional coaches.
District staff and club leaders said the model provides small‑group instruction, homework support, translation services and consistent adult mentors. Presenters reported the program serves about 300–370 students per day in schools, with about 90 children attending at the club site; during peak summer days they said attendance can rise into the 400s. "It's completely free of cost," Carlos Vega, director of operations, said.
Dana Elementary principal Amy Cleveland described the difference the model has made for her school, singling out Class to Club staffer Manny Davila for bilingual mentoring and individual support. "Class to Club has made a tremendous impact on the students and staff at Dana Elementary," Cleveland said, praising Davila's work connecting with Spanish‑speaking families.
Board members asked about transportation, summer capacity and plans to expand the model. Riley said the club operates a fleet of three buses and 10 vans to transport students from multiple schools and that leaders are discussing expansion to additional campuses in partnership with the district and the Henderson County Education Foundation.
The presenters said the program aims to deepen ties between schools and community providers and help students with both academic enrichment and social‑emotional supports. The board expressed appreciation and encouragement to explore broader rollout where demand exists.
