The need has been resoundingly heard: Youth need access to more structured learning opportunities outside of the regular school day.
According to The Afterschool Alliance, the evidence is consistent, positive, and convincing: Opportunities for learning outside of school are essential in expanding the learning that takes place during the regular school day. Students who participate in after-school programs and summer programs that utilize research-based approaches:
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improve their school attendance and engagement in learning.
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improve their test scores and grades.
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improve their personal, social, and academic skills.
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improve their self-esteem.
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limit their exposure to juvenile crime, and experimentation with drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, and sex.
Students who are exposed to rich and research-based learning opportunities outside of the regular school day by participating in after-school and summer programs are safe, healthy, and on-track for success. Conversely, youth who do not are more at-risk for significant learning loss.
Reference
After School Alliance (2011). The Afterschool hours in America. Retrieved from www.afterschoolalliance.org