Jefferson Enrichment Programs
Friends of Jefferson funds hands-on art, dance, garden, and after-school clubs that San Diego Unified doesn't — free for every Jefferson student.
ArtReach
ArtReach brings hands-on visual arts education to Jefferson students, led by professional teaching artists. Through projects in drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and mixed media, students experiment with new techniques, take creative risks, and build a body of work they're proud of.
Beyond the art itself, ArtReach builds confidence, problem-solving skills, and perseverance — habits that carry over well past the classroom.
Dance
Jefferson's dance program, led by Ms. Cybele Peña of Roots and Wings Global Arts gives students the chance to learn, create, and connect through movement. Drawing on dance styles and traditions from around the world, lessons build rhythm, coordination, and storytelling skills while celebrating cultural diversity and global perspectives.
Beyond the dance itself, students build confidence, communication skills, and perseverance in a joyful, inclusive environment where every student can participate. Throughout the year, students showcase their talents at beloved Jefferson events — including Fall Festival, the Holiday Performance at the historic North Park Observatory Theater, Salsa Fest, and Children's Day.
Garden
Jefferson’s Garden Program, led by "Mama Mia" of Good Neighbor Gardens, gives students hands-on learning in our school garden. Throughout the year, students explore plant life cycles, ecosystems, composting, nutrition, and sustainability while planting, growing, and harvesting fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
The garden doubles as an outdoor classroom, building curiosity, responsibility, and teamwork alongside a real appreciation for healthy food and the environment. A highlight of the program is the student-led Farmer's Market, where students harvest and sell garden produce to the Jefferson community — practicing leadership, entrepreneurship, and communication along the way.
After-School Clubs
Jefferson students have access to a variety of after-school clubs throughout the year, providing opportunities to explore new interests, develop skills, and connect with classmates beyond the school day.
One of the things that makes Jefferson special is our commitment to offering free after-school clubs led by dedicated parent, teacher, and student volunteers. Clubs are typically offered in 6–8 week sessions during the fall, winter, and spring, giving students multiple opportunities throughout the year to try something new. These clubs introduce students to a wide range of activities and interests while fostering creativity, curiosity, teamwork, and personal growth. Past club offerings have included Chess, Art, Dance, LEGO, Broadcasting, Theater, Ballet Folklórico, Mini-Mania, Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, and more.
In addition to our free clubs, families may choose from a variety of optional fee-based enrichment programs offered by trusted community partners. Depending on the session, offerings may include activities such as coding, cooking, art, dance, sports, martial arts, skateboarding, and more.
Together, Jefferson's free and fee-based after-school programs provide students with meaningful opportunities to learn, explore, and discover new passions in a fun and supportive environment.
Want to support these programs?
Every dollar raised by Friends of Jefferson funds the enrichment programs above — free for every Jefferson student.
Friends of Jefferson is a 501(c)(3) — your gift is tax-deductible