Teen Creates New Possibilities with Virtual Learning

Tyler O. Junior Youth of the Year

Boys & Girls Club teen, 14-year-old Tyler O. from Boys & Girls Club of Westminster, proves what’s possible when students are empowered with the digital tools they need to thrive. Engaged in STEM, coding, robotics and audio engineering during the past several years through MyFuture, Tyler turned his hobbies into something bigger – all while navigating junior high during a pandemic. 

Through a program with his local library, Tyler built a 3D printer from scratch. He merged his love for technology with the arts, using newly-acquired music production skills to lay down tracks and help produce a song for the Club to use as its theme song. He also helps his peers learn about technology, including helping younger members build rockets and learn about drone flying. 

“Tyler’s passion for virtual learning and online programs slowly empowered him to take on leadership experiences, including becoming the ‘tech guru’ of his Club,” – Erin Bishop, Marketing Director, Boys & Girls Club of Westminster

Tyler’s growing talents continue to inspire his fellow Boys & Girls Club members, who can see firsthand just how much your skills can grow and how many forms (and art forms!) STEM subjects can take.

To ensure kids and teens are getting the digital access and experiences they need to be successful, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Comcast NBCUniversal have combined forces to deliver solutions to increase connectivity for kids and teens through MyFuture, a self-directed digital platform that meets kids where they are in their digital lives and teaches a range of skills, from the most basic to the most advanced, to help bridge the technology gap for young people.

Virtual learning is here to stay, and MyFuture supports kids and teens in exploring their interests and strengthening their knowledge all while increasing their digital citizenship. From designing a racetrack to exploring college costs to building their writing skills, there is something for every young person.

The ability to juggle online or hybrid learning is crucial for this generation of students and MyFuture empowers every kid and teen to both learn and play in the digital space. 

Mastering digital tools and navigating virtual learning are no longer optional for this generation of students – they have become critical skills for academic success. In fact, 9 in 10 U.S. parents with K-12 children at home (93%) said their children have had some online instruction since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in early 2020. However, of that 93%, a third of parents said it has been very or somewhat difficult for them to help their children use technology or the Internet as an educational tool, according to an April 2021 Pew Research Center survey. 

Particularly during the pandemic, it continues to be imperative for youth to have consistent, engaging access to digital tools and resources that support them in building critical skills.  

Check out how MyFuture is equipping young people for great futures.