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Scouts Comes to WSD: A New Pathway for After-School Enrichment

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February 12, 2026

Westminster School District (WSD) officially launched its Scouts after-school pilot program, marking a new step in the district’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible, high-quality enrichment opportunities for students and families.

With kickoff events held on January 27 and January 29 at Finley Elementary School and Schmitt Elementary School, the pilot made an immediate impact. Over the two-day period, hundreds of students participated in hands-on activities, and more than 80 students enrolled in the program on the day of the events.

A group of boys standing together at the Scouts event promoting Cubs within the district.

“Scouts bring opportunities to our schools that many kids wouldn’t otherwise have. Its well-rounded program and core values help today’s youth face everyday challenges and grow into strong, confident leaders,” shared by Jonathan Edelman, Director of Expanded Learning.

A group of WSD students holding walking sticks at the Scouts recruitment event.
 

Scouts is an after-school program that introduces students to leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and character development through engaging, age-appropriate activities. Offered at no cost and hosted directly on school campuses, the program provides an accessible opportunity for students in grades 1–5 to participate in structured enrichment after school. The program builds on WSD’s new partnership with Scouting America Orange County Council, allowing the district to offer a proven program while tailoring it to the needs of WSD families.

President Johnson shaking hands with a Scouts leader at a WSD scouts recruitment event.
 

Families and students responded positively to the kickoff events, with strong participation and on-site enrollment reflecting both interest and demand. Parents shared that the program’s focus on leadership, confidence, and belonging—combined with its on-campus, after-school format—made it an appealing option.

Two students wearing camping backpacks on the playground at a Scouts event.

“It will be a great opportunity for my kids to learn new skills. I think they will enjoy the new experience and have a great time,” stated by Alma Hernandez, 1st grade parent at Schmitt Elementary.To support continued awareness and enrollment, WSD is developing multilingual outreach materials to ensure families across the district can easily access information about the Scouts program.

A group of students in the scouts program playing with the parachute while Scouts Leaders look on.

“I signed up because it will be an opportunity to do extra activities after school," said by Liliana Andres, a 4th grade parent at Schmitt Elementary, "it will be great to have my daughter learn more about nature and do more hands-on learning.”

Following the successful pilot at Finley and Schmitt, Westminster School District plans to expand the Scouts program to Johnson Middle School and additional elementary schools next school year, with remaining middle schools to follow in future phases.

Families interested in learning more about Scouts or enrolling their students are encouraged to visit the WSD Scouts page to learn more.