Programs after school are at risk of losing federal funds. What does this mean for students and parents? It means that many parents will quit their jobs so their children are not home alone after school. Most of all, students run the risk of missing extra educational experiences and socialization with other students in an informal setting.
Federal funds that provide money to an after school program mostly affect low-income families and working parents. Research shows struggling students improve academically from after school programs. Furthermore, a high percentage of parents claim their children are better at completing homework assignments when involved after school. Students became better readers and acquire more academic skills.
After School Programs Provide Important Services
These programs turn after school time into productive learning time. In addition, it benefits students with learning, attention and behavior issues.
• They provide students a chance to meet and know different peers.
• Programs after school promote cooperation, support, and respect. Students are more secure when participating in games and activities after school.
• Most of the time, structured homework help is part of the program for each student.
• Also, extra science and computer classes are offered to students. Equally, classes in art, music, and drama are available for students to have fun and experience new interests.
• Without after school supervision and activities, students are in danger of risky behavior. On the positive side, research demonstrates that students in programs beyond school hours result in better grades and less behavioral problems.
• Students improve their leadership skills .
• Lastly, students build confidence through the involvement in additional activities. This confidence eventually leads to higher self-esteem.
After school programs provide a range of benefits to students, families and communities. It’s important to realize, they level the playing field for many students in low-income families. Students are able to keep up with their peers. After school venues are valuable to our students’ future. And, they are of value to the future of our society.
