Afterschool
What It Is
Afterschool programs may provide tutoring, help strengthen academic achievement, and offer students enrichment opportunities they might not receive during the regular school day. They also offer families a great alternative to allowing children to entertain themselves after they get out of school, when they often just watch television at home or get into trouble due to a lack of supervision.Why It Matters
The U.S. Department of Education established the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program to provide funding to create community centers that would provide a safe place for students after the school day has ended. When the No Child Left Behind Act was passed in 2001, the program was redefined so that these afterschool programs would provide more than a safe environment. Specifically, they are now expected to provide academic enrichment to help students, especially those in low-performing schools, meet state achievement standards; provide activities such as art, music, recreation, and character education to reinforce and complement the regular academic program; and offer literacy and related educational development services to the families of the children involved in the programs.This new accountability for supporting student achievement raises the bar for afterschool programs around the country. In order to meet these requirements, afterschool programs need support and guidance, and afterschool practitioners need tools and resources to improve their ability to create and implement activities that support student learning.