For 35 years, After School Matters has empowered Chicago teens to discover their passions, build real-world skills, and imagine brighter futures. At the heart of that impact are our instructors—dedicated mentors, industry professionals, and trusted adults who show up every day to guide and inspire the next generation.
This year, more than 250 instructors and staff members came together at the ASM at Orleans Teen Center in the Cabrini community for our annual Instructor Forum—a day centered on connection, growth, and innovation in service of Chicago teens.
They kicked off the day with a warm welcome and a land acknowledgement from Susana Banuelos, Aztec Dance Chicago-Kuauhtli instructor.
Celebrating the Power of Instructors
ASM instructors are more than experts in their fields—they are mentors who create safe, supportive spaces where teens can learn and express themselves freely.
Since our earliest days, our instructors have played a critical role in shaping the experiences of young people across Chicago. Their commitment to sharing their time and talent is what has allowed ASM to grow and thrive for 35 years.
“I was an ASM teen. Part of my calling, part of my passion is to pay it forward and give back to young people in my program,” shared Jawon Mayberry, DJ Fundamentals Instructor.
A Day of Learning, Reflection, and Collaboration
Throughout the day, instructors participated in 11 Breakout Sessions designed to strengthen their practice and deepen their impact. Sessions focused on creating meaningful, supportive environments for teens and included topics such as:
- “All Rise, Together We Lead” — Creating Spaces for Collective Healing & Youth Empowerment
- “Grounded & Growing” — Using Rituals, Routines, and Reflection to Create Safe and Empowering Program Spaces
These sessions provided instructors with practical tools and fresh perspectives to bring back to their programs—ensuring that every teen experience is engaging, inclusive, and impactful.
Centering Teen Voice
One of the most powerful moments of the forum came from the teens themselves.
Members of the Orleans Leadership Council led a workshop titled “Joy Is Not Extra: How Fun Program Spaces Support Teen Mental Health.” In this interactive session, teens partnered with instructors to reimagine program spaces through a youth-centered lens.
Through honest conversation and creative collaboration, teens highlighted how joy, creativity, and intentional program design help young people feel safer, more connected, and better supported.
88 percent of teens who responded to a survey said they felt supported by their instructors.
By elevating youth voice, the Forum reinforced a core belief of After School Matters: teens are not just participants—they are leaders and co-creators of their experiences.
Ending on a High Note
After a full day of learning and connection, instructors came together for a joyful closing moment led by Orion Perez, an ASM alum and an Intro to Latin Dance instructor. The interactive dance session brought energy to the room, encouraging instructors to step outside their comfort zones, celebrate one another, and end the day on a high note.
Honoring Excellence: Purple Star Awards
The Forum concluded with the presentation of the Purple Star Awards, recognizing instructors and partners who go above and beyond in their dedication to teens and their communities.
This year’s honorees included:
Nancy Tamay (Downtown/Orleans)
Programs include:
Digital Photography @ Orleans
Experimental Printing in the Darkroom @ Gallery 37
Photography Exploration I & II @ Orleans
Alvaro “JB” Gonzalez (North/Northwest)
Programs include:
The Art of Skateboarding
The Art of Skateboarding Too
Monique Thompson (South/Southwest)
Programs include:
Dance For L.I.F.E. 1 Advanced
Dance For L.I.F.E. 2
ChiTown Champions (Community-Based Organization Partner)
Programs include:
Advanced Adapt into Leadership (Virtual)
Learn & Lead Coding Basics (Virtual)
Arise: I Code into Leadership
Arise: I Fight Until I Win
Arise: I Tumble into Leadership
Looking Ahead
As we continue celebrating our 35th Anniversary, the Instructor Forum serves as a powerful reminder that investing in instructors is investing in Chicago teens.
Because of their passion, creativity, and commitment, young people across the city are gaining the skills, confidence, and support they need to succeed—today and into the future.