MORE THAN AN AFTER-SCHOOL JOB
How Upper School students gain responsibility and build community with Lower School families
On a recent episode of the Beyond the Bell podcast, student host Grayson Barrett sat down with Nicole Barrett, Assistant Head of Lower School, to discuss one of Mount Pisgah Christian School’s student growth opportunities: the After School Work Program.
Originally created to support Lower School After Care staffing needs, the program has grown into a meaningful leadership experience for Upper School students and a bridge between divisions.
A First Job with Real Expectations
The After School Work Program offers high school students paid, structured work experience within the Pisgah community. Students apply by sending an email to Mrs. Barrett, completing an interview, and submitting the necessary payroll paperwork before joining the team.
For many, it is their first formal job. Through scheduling, communication with parents, and daily responsibility for younger students, participants learn practical skills that extend well beyond campus.
Leadership in Action
The growth in students is noticeable over time. Those who begin the program quietly often grow into confident leaders who manage groups, lead games, and interact comfortably with families.
For Lower School students, the high schoolers quickly become role models. They see them as mentors and leaders, not employees.
“They think they’re heroes. They have no idea that they actually get paid to work with them.” - Nicole Barrett
Strengthening the School Community
The program also strengthens connections across Mount Pisgah Christian School. Upper School students from a wide range of interests participate, creating relationships that might not otherwise form.
“It unites the Lower School with the Upper School… and it just builds more community among everybody.” - Nicole Barrett
Parents frequently share how much their children look forward to after school time, and families often begin supporting the high school students they have come to know by supporting them at their extracurriculars like sporting events. What begins as a job often becomes mentorship and lasting connection.
Students who are interested in joining the program can reach out to Mrs. Barrett directly to begin the process.
To hear the full conversation, listen to this episode of Beyond the Bell here.
Beyond the Bell is a student-produced podcast from Mount Pisgah Christian School that highlights the voices and experiences shaping our community. Listen here or on Spotify for more conversations from across Pisgah.