Exploring the role of extracurricular activities on academic development among high school students

Aim: This study explored the role of extracurricular activities (ECAs) in the academic development of high school students, focusing on their lived experiences and perspectives, as well as those of parents, teachers, and school administrators.It examined how participation in ECAs influences academic performance, motivation, time management, and personal development, while identifying benefits, challenges, and differences in implementation between public and private schools.Methodology: A qualitative phenomenological research design was employed.Data were gathered through semistructured interviews with high school students, parents, teachers, and school administrators.Interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using in vivo coding to preserve participants' authentic expressions and cultural meanings, leading to the development of emerging themes.Results: Four major themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Redefining Success Beyond Grades, where students perceived success as encompassing leadership, confidence, and discipline in addition to academic achievement;(2) Managing Stress While Balancing Academics and ECAs, highlighting that ECAs functioned both as stress relievers and additional demands depending on students' time management skills; (3) Support and Mentoring, emphasizing the crucial role of parental and institutional guidance in helping students balance academic and extracurricular responsibilities; and (4) Differences in Implementation, revealing that ECAs were more systematically integrated into the curriculum in private schools, whereas public schools relied on flexible scheduling outside regular class hours, affecting student engagement and participation. Conclusion:The findings indicate that extracurricular activities positively contribute to students' academic development and acquisition of essential life skills despite challenges related to time constraints and unequal access.Effective integration of ECAs requires supportive school policies, structured scheduling, and strong mentoring systems to maximize their academic and developmental benefits for high school students.