Welcome to Eastern Michigan University Bright Futures 21st Century Community Learning Centers!

Bright Futures forges an alliance with three economically challenged suburban school districts and Eastern Michigan University’s Institute for the Study of Children, Families, and Communities in the office of Engage@EMU. The project serves students and families in twelve schools in the Wayne-Westland Community School District, eight sites in the Ypsilanti Community Schools, and two sites in Romulus Community Schools. Bright Futures is designed to address the needs expressed by the families and children served, community stakeholders, and school staff. Currently, the program focuses on math, reading, writing, health, and social-emotional growth.

Bright Futures programs meet after school for two and a half hours Monday through Thursday, 32 weeks during the school year, and 6 weeks in the summer. Students participate daily in homework help, targeted academic assistance, mentoring, and project-based learning and select from a rotating menu of clubs and activities. Clubs focus on student interests in science, the arts, technology, engineering, culinary, physical fitness, personal development, and specific skills to support Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and a successful transition from elementary to middle, from middle to high school, and to post-secondary programs (college, university, career technical programs, etc).

Bright Futures Logo

Licensed by the State

All elementary and middle school sites are licensed by the State of Michigan to provide child care. In addition, our high school programs follow the same protocol, which includes a comprehensive background check for all site employees.

Students working together

Our Partners

EMU Bright Futures collaborates with a wide variety of groups and organizations in order to provide high quality afterschool programming to our students.

Materials Developed Under a Grant

These materials were developed under a grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Education in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential.

Local Evaluation Report

The 2023-2024 local evaluation report is available. If interested, please contact Project Director Suzie Staley.