A troubling misconception is fueling dramatic budget cuts for critical after-school programs—and if we don’t act now, the effects on 1.6 million at-risk kids will be devastating.
The current administration mistakenly claimed that after-school programs show “no demonstrable evidence that they are helping kids do better in school”—and proposed to eliminate funding for enrichment programs made possible by the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC).
But in fact, there is over 20 years of evidence showing that students who attend after-school programs attend school more often, have lower rates of suspension, are likely to be promoted, get better grades, improve in reading and math achievement, develop academic self-esteem, and improve social and emotional skills.
After-school programs are so vital that they often mean the difference between making it to graduation or not.
Take action today and urge your representative to stand up for students who rely on after-school programming.
To whom it may concern:
The White House's FY18 budget proposal recommends the elimination of 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC), a step that would leave nearly 2 million children without a place to go before or after school. I'm writing to urge you to maintain funding for this program.
In communities all across the nation, young people are developing the skills necessary to succeed in school, work and life through enrichment, afterschool and summer learning programs. These programs are locally designed, innovative supports that meet the needs of students and families and provide a safe haven that helps kids avoid risky behaviors during the hours of 3-6 pm, when juvenile crime peaks.
Furthermore, 21st CCLC, reauthorized one year ago as part of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), supports local partnerships of schools with faith-based organizations, nonprofits, colleges or universities, and other community organizations to provide access to great enrichment programs after school and in the summer that help families get ahead today, and prepare for success tomorrow.
Given the lifelong benefits to each child, family, and community and the documented returns on investment, I strongly urge Congress to maintain support for the 21st CCLC initiative at $1.2 billion dollars.
[Your comment here]
Sincerely,
[Your name here]
