Chris Kuebler

OST Programs Growing

The school year kicked off with some exciting new program changes for our Out-of-School Time Programs, acknowledging intentional inclusion of even more youth for the 2025-2026 school year. 

Holton Elementary expanded programming to include kindergarten students and now, also offers before school programming. 

“In an effort to support more students and meet the needs of our families, we recently worked with Project FOCUS to change program times and grade level eligibility. This flexibility has allowed us to enroll more students and offer a before school option for our elementary students,” shares Dr. Adam Bayne, Holton Superintendent.

Parents are also expressing their gratitude for the program. 

“I have two kindergarteners in the Project FOCUS Program at Holton Elementary. This program’s flexible structure has been a game-changer for our family. It has allowed me to keep my job and build my career without the constant stress of rigid schedules. The perfect sync between my work hours and their school days is a gift that has saved me a fortune in daycare expenses and the logistic nightmare of arranging third-party childcare. This freedom has not only supported my professional life but has also brought a priceless peace of mind. My kids’ days are filled with vibrant creativity, from arts and crafts that ignite their imaginations to games like Simon Says that keep them active and engaged. This focus on playful, hands-on learning, where there is no division between fun and education, has cultivated their natural curiosity and turned each school day into an exciting adventure. Project FOCUS is more than just a program and I couldn’t be more thankful for all the opportunities it has brought my family, thank you,” says Nancy Bromley, Holton Project FOCUS parent.

“I have a fifth grader and a first grader who have both been part of Holton’s morning Project FOCUS program, and I’ve never seen them so excited to get up and go to school. My first grader especially loves connecting with older students, and every day they come home eager to share the fun they had—whether it’s stacking cups, building paper chains, playing games, or learning about how everyone brings purpose. Project FOCUS has helped my kids see value in themselves and others. The staff is phenomenal, and my kids are genuinely disappointed on days they can’t attend. It’s truly given our family the best start to each day,” stated Stephanie Callow, Holton Project FOCUS parent.

In addition to the changes at Holton Elementary, Muskegon Heights Academy also launched programming at the middle school for students in 6th-9th grade. They will now serve these youth with enriching activities and programming in addition to kindergarten through 5th grade at Edgewood Elementary. 

Many programs, including Baldwin, Hesperia, Holton and White Cloud, extended programming to include 9th graders as well. This decision will allow many of the same youth who have been enjoying Project FOCUS programming to remain in the program for a longer duration, receive academic support and maintain the strong relationship bonds they’ve formed, both with other students and with staff.