The Value of After-School Programs (click to download PDF)

Studies are released every year documenting the impact and value of after-school programs.  At a time when New York State is seeking to improve student achievement, the evidence that after-school programs can play a critical role in improving student outcomes is of particular importance.  Here is a sampling of studies and findings.

Capturing Promising Practices in Afterschool: A Scan of Promising Academic and Enrichment Activities (click to download PDF)

Afterschool programs have been serving the developmental needs of children in America for well over a century. In the last ten years, however, we have seen overwhelming public support and funding for the expansion of these programs across the country. The substantial growth in funding for afterschool programs is driven, in part, by the belief that young people are more likely to succeed in school and in life when they have access to safe places after school– places that are supervised by caring adults and that offer engaging, high-quality learning activities.

A Summary of New York Data from the Uncertain Times: Funding Insecurity Puts Afterschool Programs at Risk Web-based Survey (click to download PDF)

Today, a minority of New York students benefit from afterschool programs while many youth in the state are unable to enroll because space is limited and funding is not keeping pace with demand. Afterschool programs provide a critical support that helps children do better in school and reassures parents that their children are safe and well cared for after the school day ends. Unfortunately, program leaders report that they are serving a high-need population; are serving more children than expected; and are insecure about long-term sustainability. Nearly all respondents to this web-based survey say that more children in their communities could benefit from afterschool programs, if programs were available.