Sign our open letter to let school leaders know families need afterschool and summer learning programs.

Learn more about Afterschool

Decades of research show that afterschool programs inspire students to learn, help them do better in school, and prepare for college and career. Afterschool also keeps kids safe and helps parents keep their jobs.

Sign our open letter to let school leaders know families need afterschool and summer learning programs.

Afterschool helps kids realize their full potential

Inspiring students to learn

Afterschool offers enriching activities—from coding and circuitry to producing stage plays and growing gardens—that spark interest in school and learning.

Students who participate in afterschool programs develop strong work habits, attend school more often, earn better grades, and are more likely to graduate. Teachers say students in afterschool programs show more interest in class, behave better, and are more likely to complete their homework.

Helping kids gain workforce skills

Through internships, mentoring programs, community projects, and other unique learning experiences, afterschool helps kids develop communication skills and learn how to lead, think critically, solve problems, and work in teams.

Afterschool programs offer kids to new opportunities to discover what they love to do, explore possible career paths, and gain the skills they need to land that first job.

Keeping kids safe and giving parents peace of mind

For many parents, afterschool is a lifeline that helps them work without worry and balance their schedule. These programs give parents peace of mind while they’re working because they know their kids are safe—online and offline—and engaged in fun learning opportunities.

Take Action Now

All students should have access to the supports they need to learn. That includes help with academics, caring mentors who can support kids’ social-emotional well-being, meals, physical activity, transportation to and from programs, and affordable care while parents work.

Afterschool and summer learning programs in your area can help.

Urge your school to partner with local out-of-school time programs. Together we can help young people forge their future.