Club Compass Updates – March 2026
Club Compass: Learning, Growing, and Shining Together
Club Compass is a place where kids can learn, grow, and have fun. Club Compass takes place once a week at five sites, serving students from Springfield Public Schools – District 186. Club Compass begins with a snack and some much-needed “wiggle time” after school, a chance for students to move, laugh, and release some energy before settling in for academics and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL).
Recently, our SEL lessons focused on important life skills that help kids succeed both in and out of the classroom. Students explored themes such as managing time, understanding that “I have autonomy and responsibility for how I choose to spend my time,” adapting to change, and treating others the way you want to be treated. Each lesson included interactive activities that encouraged students to think, reflect, and practice these skills with their peers.
Our enrichment partners once again made learning come alive with engaging experiences. Students learned about health and advocacy with Ebony Logan from the Epilepsy Advocacy Network, explored creativity and confidence through Erica Austin’s inspiring affirmation lantern project, and welcomed Jaleesa Davis from Glaze Nail Salon for a meaningful session discussing color and emotions with the group. Officers from the Springfield Police Department spent time connecting with students and answering questions, while our friends from Security Bank helped students build financial literacy skills. For some furry and non-furry fun, Autumn Gibson brought her exotic animals, giving students a unique opportunity to learn about wildlife up close, and the National Park Service shared lessons about nature and conservation.
One of our most popular activities continues to be when our YLDP students join Black Hawk Club Compass as “Compass Buddies,” working side-by-side with younger students on fun STEM projects. Both groups of kids look forward to their time together and are bonding with their new buddies.
In celebration of Black History Month, Club Compass kids visited the Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum to learn more about the powerful stories, history, and contributions that have shaped the Springfield community. Through an engaging scavenger hunt, students explored exhibits and discovered the important role that African American leaders and families have played in our local history.
We wrapped up each day with a hearty dinner. Kids headed home with full bellies and a bag of shelf-stable food from our Backpack Feeding Program to help fuel them through the rest of the week. A big shout-out to our wonderful dinner providers who show up week after week to serve, connect, and share a meal with our students.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the generosity of our community! From our site volunteers, dinner providers, enrichment providers, to our Compass families, friends, and supporters, we thank you!
