Extension Washington County 4-H is bringing interactive, project-based learning directly to local schools by providing programming for three West Bend School District afterschool programs. Designed to give students the opportunity to learn new skills in topics of interest and discover how those skills connect to potential career paths, these sessions invite young people to build critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities in a supportive and creative environment.
At the middle school level, students can dive headfirst into engineering and design challenges. In Aerospace Adventures, 6th graders explore how things fly by designing, testing, and tweaking rockets, gliders, and spacecraft systems while connecting with real-world aerospace careers. Building on that scientific curiosity, 7th and 8th graders at Badger Middle School can participate in Build It! (Thursdays, Oct 15–Nov 19, 3:15–4:15 PM, $30), where they tackle hands-on structural challenges like catapults, bridges, and hydraulic systems using the engineering design process.
For younger learners, Books for Cooks (Tuesdays, Nov 3–Dec 8, 3:30–4:30 PM, $30) at Green Tree Elementary brings stories to life in the kitchen for grades K–5. By pairing food-themed literature with beginner culinary concepts, kids practice reading, nutrition, and kitchen safety while building confidence and trying new foods. To learn more or to register for these and other opportunities, check out the West Bend School District’s Afterschool Programming Guide.