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Hamilton Elementary students showcase after‑school clubs; district credits Metrolink bus for access
Summary
Students and staff highlighted Hamilton Elementary’s expanded before‑and‑after‑school clubs, a district goal that all second‑through‑fifth graders join at least one club; staff said a Metrolink bus schedule change allowed 75–90 students who rely on buses to participate on Tuesdays.
Hamilton Elementary students and staff presented an overview of the school’s before‑ and after‑school clubs at the Moline‑Coal Valley CUSD 40 board meeting.
School staff described a school improvement plan goal requiring all second‑through‑fifth graders to participate in at least one club, a change made after surveys showed student interest. Staff credited a partnership with Metrolink, which allows the district to run Tuesday club sessions so about 75–90 bus‑riding students can stay and take part, expanding access for students who otherwise go home immediately after school.
Staff listed offerings that include Books and Braids, Spanish Read‑Aloud (partnered with the district’s heritage language program), cup stacking, a Coding Club, MakerFest, academic team, dance club, student council, after‑school choir, HamFit, art club and an invitation‑only advanced math/coding enrichment. The district said the coding program provided each participating student with a micro:bit device to learn and continue practicing at home, and the PTO funded scholarships so cost would not bar participation for families.
Students described how clubs foster teamwork, leadership and confidence. “Coding club made me feel comfortable in learning technology,” a student identified as Callie said, adding that the club promotes creativity and collaboration. Another student said Books and Braids pairs peer reading with hair‑braiding support, which helps reading practice and social connections.
Board members asked technical and operational questions during a short Q&A. When asked which devices the coding club uses, students said micro:bit devices and described hands‑on learning rather than purely text‑based programming.
The presentation concluded with staff thanking volunteers, parents and the PTO for scholarships and partnerships that allow the expanded offerings. The district did not announce new funding for the programs at the meeting.
