There are about 283 students enrolled in Encina Preparatory High School’s ASSETS program. Every day after school, these students can work on homework, school projects or recover missed credits. The 14-year-old After School Safety and Enrichment for Teens program also offers interactive clubs lead by adult staff exploring a variety of subjects such as robotics, cosmetology, weightlifting and cooking. Students are referred to ASSETS by administrators, teachers or parents. Students can also enroll themselves at no cost. Encina is one of just two high schools in the San Juan Unified School District offering ASSETS.

ASSETS Site Coordinator Nancy Miranda emphasizes the “safety” aspect of the program. She says, “A lot of our students don’t go home or don’t have a safe or supportive home to go to after school. So having that extension after school is good for them."

ASSETS is available Monday through Friday for three hours after school. Students sign in, then work on homework or school projects and prepare for tests during Academic Hour. During the three-hour session there’s also time for socializing with friends and club activities. Elizabeth Ramirez / Capital Public Radio

ASSETS students help each other with homework in any of the 22 languages spoken at Encina Preparatory High School. Elizabeth Ramirez / Capital Public Radio

ASSETS provides an after-school snack for all students enrolled in the program. 93.5 percent of those attending Encina meet the family income qualification for Free or Reduced Price Meals. Elizabeth Ramirez / Capital Public Radio

Zahra Mohammad Ali, Cheyeanne Martin, Yuneeke Savoy and Juliette Chase (left-right) make lattes in the popular Barista Club. As they prepare coffee drinks for Encina staff, faculty and students, they’re also learning business and job skills. Elizabeth Ramirez / Capital Public Radio

ASSETS staff member Danny El Ray works with 11th grader Freddie Daniels in the recording studio. Students write lyrics, edit and produce original music with El Ray’s assistance. Elizabeth Ramirez / Capital Public Radio

Junior Freddie Daniels checks his phone while ASSETS staff member Danny El Ray creates a beat for a new song. Elizabeth Ramirez / Capital Public Radio

11th grade Encina student Freddie Daniels listens back to the mix of his new freestyle song recorded in the ASSETS music studio. Elizabeth Ramirez / Capital Public Radio