After-School Programs for High School Students: An Evaluation of After School Matters

This report from Northwestern University summarizes findings from a randomized controlled trial study of After School Matters (ASM), a program which offers paid apprenticeship-type experiences in a wide array of areas, such as technology, the arts, and sports. Apprenticeships were located across 10 Chicago public high schools. Youth in the treatment group reported significantly higher self-regulation and significantly fewer problem behaviors than youth in the control group. The program did not impact academic outcomes.