“I made trail mix with chocolate in it.”
That was Jermaine’s highlight of the year. It was clear that the time he spent with friends, trying something new, and having a space to enjoy it together made it special for the Sandusky Intermediate scholar.
At our Sandusky program’s end-of-year showcase, Jermaine’s family and the families of many other scholars gathered to reflect on the year. They watched a baton twirling performance and spoke with coordinators about their scholars’ experiences and growth.
As families browsed display boards, scholars and staff proudly pointed to photos of robotics and LEGO builds, theatre rehearsals, our Pitch Challenge (aka "Shark Tank"), music, cooking, and dance – moments they were eager to share.
In those photos, families saw their students engaged, building confidence, and having fun. They also saw something more: scholars – as we see across our Northern Ohio sites – engaged in ways that lead to stronger school attendance and improved grades.
Since launching in 2022, the program has grown to serve more than 120 students, each with opportunities to explore new interests and build meaningful connections.
For Jermaine, the takeaway wasn’t complicated, but it was clear.
“Other kids should join ODA because you spend a lot of time with your friends. You do great activities!”
