Afterschool

Before and Afterschool Programs

Before and afterschool programs in California have grown over the last decade due in part to the increased focus on academic outcomes and concerns over student safety. Evaluations of California afterschool programs have found positive impacts on student achievement, attendance, behavior and reductions in grade retention. Research also suggests that children and youth are most likely to be victims or perpetrators of crime during the hours of three and six, after school ends. Many communities have invested in these programs to support and refine the learning that occurs during a student’s regular school day and to help ensure the safety of children and youth afterschool.

There are a number of funding sources, federal, state and local, that can be used to support before and afterschool programs. The two largest funding sources in California are the 21st Century Community Learning Center Program and the Afterschool Education and Safety (ASES) Program.