October 8, 2025

F.L. Schlagle High School Surges Forward with a New One-of-a-Kind After-School Program

A group of people gathers for a ribbon-cutting ceremony decorated with blue and yellow balloons.

At F.L. Schlagle High School, the final bell of the day usually meant one thing, students heading straight for the exits, eager to be anywhere other than class.

A diverse group of people gather for a ribbon-cutting ceremony decorated with blue and yellow balloons.

But this fall, things will look very different when the day ends. School leaders have launched a one-of-a-kind after-school program called Stallion Surge.

On Monday, September 29, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at F.L. Schlagle to officially kick off the program. Fox4 Sports Reporter Harold Kuntz served as the emcee of the ceremony where he introduced dignitaries, supporters, and partnering organizations.

A person stands at a podium in front of a blue backdrop adorned with blue and yellow balloons.

“It was a meaningful celebration that brought together community members, partners, students, and staff all excited about the possibilities ahead,” said Stallion Surge Program Director Iesha Tyler. “The enthusiasm and support really set the tone for the program’s journey.”

What lies ahead will be a program that offers academic support, college and career experiences, family engagement, enrichment activities, and mentoring for Schlagle students. Any student who is interested in participating can take part in the program.

A speaker stands on a stage decorated with blue and yellow balloons during a celebration.

“The name Stallion Surge has existed for a few years now,” shared Schlagle High School Principal Dr. Lazell Williams. “It began as a program to provide additional support to seniors. As our various mentoring programs grew in scope, we decided to expand our reach and service to the entire school.”

Leaders say the after-school program is unique in many ways.

A group of people gather in a community room for an event, seated around tables and chairs.

It’s one of the few comprehensive programs that seamlessly integrates academic support, hands-on enrichment, and career readiness through partnerships with organizations such as TPT Educational Services, YouLEAD, Upward Bound at KCKCC, and The University of Missouri Kansas City (UMKC) School of Engineering.

Stallion Surge is also one of the only programs in the district to receive the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant, a highly competitive federal award that funds innovative after-school learning experiences.

According to Dr. Williams, F.L. Schalgle is the only high school in the state with a program of this magnitude, and the first secondary school in the district's history to have an after-school program.

A person speaks at a podium decorated with blue and yellow balloons during an indoor event.

Tyler envisions the program as a vital cornerstone in the foundation of student success.

During the ceremony, she delivered some heartfelt remarks to the students who were there.

“Today is about more than just cutting a ribbon. It’s about cutting away barriers. It’s about showing you that we believe in your potential, and you deserve every opportunity to dream big.”

A large yellow balloon with the text 'STALLION SURGE' is featured indoors, with blue and yellow balloon decorations in the background.

She also hopes that it will provide a safe space for students where they not only receive academic help, but also gain confidence, mentorships, and real-world skills.

“I see the program as a resource for all students who want to improve academically, explore career pathways, and connect with caring adults who can guide them.”