What are Afterschool Programs?
Before- and after-school programs provide students with academic enrichment opportunities and activities designed to complement their regular school day’s academic program during non-school hours by providing a range of high-quality services to support student learning and development, including tutoring and mentoring, homework help, academic enrichment (such as hands-on math, reading/language arts, and science programs), community service opportunities, as well as music, arts, sports, and cultural activities. Here in Missouri, we tend to use the terms School Age Community, 21st Century Community Learning Center, and Afterschool. They mean the same thing. We also see other names for these programs; these may include but are not limited to Latchkey, Adventure club, Extended Day, Enrichment and Beyond School. No matter what terms or titles are used, the mission is the same, to provide a safe, enriching place for school age youth to be during non-traditional school hours.
Afterschool programs provide a safe, caring and nurturing place for extended learning, social, recreational, and personal life skills development for students during non-school hours. Afterschool is not a continuation of the school day but extends and enriches the opportunities for experiential learning, social development and recreation. It incorporates a strong partnership of school, family, and community members that collaboratively contribute to the growth of students as they mature into caring, competent and responsible adults.
