Expanding Horizons is a free afterschool and summer program in Salem where you can discover fun, new activities (such as robotics, cooking, and art) with a caring community of friends and mentors.
Expanding Horizons is a 21st Century Community Learning Center program funded in part by the U.S. Department of Education and is run in partnership with Salem Public Schools.
It is not too late to sign up for the afterschool program! The Spring session will run from March 31- June 12 3:15 – 5:45. Students can sign up for Mondays & Wednesdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays or all four days. Join us to make comic books, create phone apps, learn to swim, and understand the power of social media!
Summer 2025 at Expanding Horizons
This free summer program offers middle school students the chance to engage in exciting, hands-on learning experiences while making new friends. Students will identify their preferences for which interdisciplinary, project-based learning they want to focus on this summer:
- Environmental Action & Sustainability – Investigate local environmental issues and create solutions.
- Robotics & Innovation – Build and program robots to solve challenges and enhance sustainability efforts.
- Community History & Culture – Explore the diverse histories and contributions of the people of Salem, and collaborate with the Peabody Essex Museum on an exhibit.
- Storytelling & Documentary – Capture and share the stories of community members through photojournalism.
- Access to Healthy Food for All -- Explore healthy foods and the challenges some people face in getting access to them. Raise awareness of needs and resources.
In the afternoons, students can expand their creativity and skills by trying out photography, art, app coding, and sports & fitness.
The program also includes exciting field trips to local landmarks, museums, parks, and tech centers to deepen students’ understanding and inspire new ideas.
Additional Benefits:
- Breakfast and lunch provided daily
- Transportation available for students living more than a mile away
Join us this summer for an engaging, interactive, and inspiring learning adventure where you can explore, create, and connect with your community!


TIME
8:30-2:30

July 7 – August 7, 2025 Mondays-Thursdays

LOCATION
Salem High School
Taylor Mimms
Site Coordinator
Program Goals
- Discover Your Interests - try new activities and find something you’re passionate about
- Connect with Others - meet new friends, caring teachers, and people in the community
- Grow and Improve - set goals you care about and start to pursue them, get support with your homework
Program Schedule
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- Session 1: September 30- December 19, 2024
- Session 2: January 13 – March 27, 2025
- Session 3: March 31 – June 12, 2025
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- Days: Mondays - Thursdays (not including half-days and holidays). Students can sign up for 2 days (Mon/Wed or Tues/Thurs) or all 4 days. Additionally, students can sign up for Clubs offered by CMS teachers so students can also attend 3 days (adding a club to a 2-day Enrichment).
- Time: 3:15 - 5:30 PM
- Location: Collins Middle School, Salem
Program Design
Additional Benefits
- Daily snacks
- Transportation home at the end of the day
- Friendly staff of community partners, Salem Public School and LEAP employees
- Teen Center and College Success programming available once in high school
- District COVID safety protocols in place