New State Report on After School Programs

Posted by on July 13, 2009

State report confirms value of after school programs

A report issued by the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee of the Pennsylvania General Assembly recommends the creation of a Statewide Afterschool Coordinating Council to enhance after school opportunities for the state’s nearly 1.3 million school-aged children.

The report was mandated by the legislature to assess the availability and affordability of afterschool programs in Pennsylvania.  It calls on the state to promote web-based regional databases of afterschool programs, identify potential new funding sources, and assess local needs and barriers to afterschool programs, especially for adolescents.

Key findings in the report show that more research is needed to fully understand the benefits and challenges of afterschool programs.

The Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/Youth Development Network endorsed the report, saying it promotes discussion regarding the importance of afterschool programs and the program components necessary to positively impact young people.

“The need for high quality afterschool programs in Pennsylvania is significant,” acting Director Lynn M. Cromley said.  “PSAYDN knows that kids’ formative, out-of-school hours can be filled with quality youth development programs that inspire learning, keep kids safe and help working families.

“The recommendations are closely aligned with PSAYDN’s core belief that all children and youth deserve access to high quality out-of-school time programs that promote positive youth development and support the successful transition to adulthood,” Cromley stated.

http://www.psaydn.org/Documents/PA%20Report%20on%20Afterschool%20Programs.pdf