The Ariel Extended Day Program offers children in first through eighth grade a safe, welcoming environment during the after-school hours of 3:15 to 6 p.m. filled with continued learning opportunities. The program serves as an extension of the academy’s academic program and “fills the gaps” left in a typical public school due to a short class day and limited opportunities for social, cultural and recreational experiences. This year, 146 students from pre-K through 8th grade are enrolled in the program. Eight of the 12 full-time employees provided by AEI are directly responsible for facilitating the Extended Day Program. These program coordinators are present in the classrooms during regular school hours in order to successfully extend the daily lessons into the after-school hours. Extra-curricular activities play a large role in the Extended Day Program as well, allowing students to develop themselves personally, culturally, and physically. These activities include sports, art, chess, choir, tap dance, ballet and more.

In a continuing effort to infuse the Academy’s unique investment curriculum into all aspects of the school, the Extended Day Program is also an opportunity for students to put their financial skills to use. The Junior Board of Directors meets after school to discuss various investment topics and review their current portfolio holdings. Field trips and professional events such as visits to the McDonald’s annual shareholders’ meeting and the Chicago Board of Trade are other ways in which the Junior Board gains real world financial experiences.