Noting the importance of good nutrition to out-of-school time programs serving children, this strategy brief provides an overview of the major sources of federal food and nutrition funds that can support out-of-school time and community school programs. The brief then highlights five strategies that community leaders and program developers can…

This technical aid packet provides information on the value of after-school programs in addressing students' barriers to success. It focuses on school-community collaborations and on opportunities for after-school involvement offered at school sites. The six chapters focus on the following: (1) "After-School Programs as Part of a Broad, School…

The adviser's job is difficult; turnover for new activity directors and class or club advisers is high. This guide was prepared to help new high school advisers face the many demands they will encounter. Although initially prepared with a specific school district in mind, it includes practices, procedures, forms, and ideas that could be used by…

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant has great potential for funding out-of-school time and community school initiatives. While the flexibility that states have in allocating TANF funds presents significant opportunity for innovation, it also presents a dizzying array of policy options. This strategy brief presents…

This handbook is the fruit of two projects of the University of Minnesota's College of Education: (1) the Dowling Friendship Program, a 3-year project at a public elementary school in Minneapolis in which children with and without disabilities participated in a variety of recreation activities during school, after school, at each other's homes,…

After-school programs have the potential to keep children safe and out of trouble and can help to improve the academic performance of the increasing numbers of participating children. This report presents positive research on after-school programs and examples illustrating the potential of high-quality after-school activities to keep children…

It is important for children to have a safe way to spend time after school and to have the opportunity to bolster the education they receive during class with extra learning activities. This guide provides information about after-school programs so that parents can choose the best one for their children. There are good after-school programs in…

Afterschool programs are rich with educational opportunities. Programs can make what is learned during the traditional day vibrant and relevant to the lives of children. Comprehensive programs that are integrated into the regular school program and draw on resources within the community can yield positive outcomes for children. Key to this…

Computers are strategic tools in readying students for the future, as well as important learning tools for the present. The use of computers can help alleviate critical problems including low self-esteem, dropout rates, and illiteracy. This guide proposes making school computers accessible to students during times when schools are normally closed:…