Thrive Program

After School Overview: 

The Thrive program is in session on Mondays and Wednesdays after school from 3:30-5:45 p.m., and Fridays from 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. On Mondays and Wednesdays the focus is on academic achievement, social-emotional, and challenge based learning. These days, students have extra support in completing homework and other assignments as well as receiving intensive tutoring in areas they struggle with. Students also learn how to work cooperatively with their classmates, create and follow through with goals, and create healthy habits. Fridays still have a focus on these areas, but other elements are added, such as STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math), group projects, enrichment, and physical activity. These additions promote critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Summer School Programming: 

During the summer, the Thrive Program will be in session four

days a week. The structure of each day is shared below:

❖ Monday-Wednesday: Monday through Wednesday, the program will run from 8:00 a.m. -

12:00 p.m. The focus on these two days will be on goals 1 and 2 of the program.

❖ Thursday: On Thursdays, the program will run 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. with the focus on

goal 3. Thursday will focus on STEAM activities and other hands-on projects which may

include taking field trips to various locations.

The Thrive program also seeks partnerships with parents and community by organizing opportunities for students to take part in community activities, such as helping with the town tree lighting ceremony, and participating in activities put on by the recreation center and public library.

Meet our Staff: 

• Program Coordinator: Natalie Sims Master of Education in Early and Special Education, Graduate Certificate in Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports

The Program Coordinator collaborates closely with Sublette County School District #9 to oversee all program aspects. Responsibilities include grant compliance, coordination of program activities, overseeing staff, and reporting as well as creating positive community partnerships and communicating with stakeholders.

• Academic Coordinator: Douglas Macdonald Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Sciences

The Academic Coordinator ensures the seamless implementation of academic programming aligned with the program's mission. This role includes direct interaction with students, providing

instruction, overseeing academic tutoring, and coordinating with the Wellness Coordinator to address the holistic needs of students. 

• Student Wellness Coordinator: Alison Applin Master of Social Work

The Wellness Coordinator oversees all mental health and well-being programming, ensuring alignment with the program's mission and goals. Responsibilities include social-emotional instruction, encouraging healthy habits, coordinating counseling services, and collaborating with external mental health professionals as needed.

• Academic Tutors: Certified teachers in Sublette County School District #9

Tutors, specialize in literacy and mathematics and work under the guidance of the Academic Coordinator. They provide high dosage tutoring sessions, conduct assessments, and tailor instruction to address specific academic needs identified in collaboration with the Academic Coordinator.

• Student Support Specialists: Two Big Piney High School students

High school students demonstrating academic and behavioral excellence serve as Student Support Specialists. Under the supervision of the coordinators, they support students in both academic and wellness activities, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.

All coordinators are receiving training in Trauma Informed Practices through Mentor Agility. Mentor Agility is also working with the Thrive coordinators to create a curriculum that meets all program goals.