Afterschool programs often play an important role in promoting healthy lifestyles for youth. Many programs offer youth opportunities to engage in an array of organized physical activities such as softball, martial arts or ballet. Most programs also serve healthy afternoon snacks while emphasizing the value of a nutritious diet. Physical fitness…

The report, compiled from visits by groups of policymakers, discusses the challenges to out-of-school-time (OST) program implementation, including issues of going to scale, state and local roles and responsibilities, funding and sustainability, the role of intermediaries and advocates, and the relationship between OST programming and academic…

After-school programs provide wide-ranging benefits to children, their families, and the whole community. This report focuses on the benefits children receive: increased safety, reduced risk-taking, and improved learning. Quality afterschool programs keep kids out of trouble, prevent crime, juvenile delinquency, school vandalism, and violent…

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…

This fact sheet presents a case for public funding of after-school programs for children and youth. The fact sheet begins by describing the risks to which children and youth are exposed and the variety of ways in which children and youth spend time after school. The benefits of participating in after-school programming for children and youth…

Noting that most evaluations of out-of-school (OST) programs have examined the programs as a whole without taking into account the specific activities offered, this issue of "Out-of-School Time Evaluation Snapshots" surveys the range of activities being implemented in OST settings across the country to better understand and promote…

This report presents findings from Phase 1 of an evaluation of the New York City Beacons initiative, a school-community-family partnership model initiated in 1991. Beacons are community centers within public schools that offer activities and services to people of all ages before and after school, in the evenings, and on weekends. Research included…

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…

Various types of after-school child care programs are discussed, and characteristics of high-quality programs, such as staff requirements, parental involvement, and space needs are identified. Suggestions for administering and financing these programs are included. (PP)

Discusses issues related to dual attendance of school and before- or after-school programs, including structural differences between school and child care, transitions between two programs, recognition of children with adjustment difficulties, easing of the adjustment process, the importance of communication, and implications for the curricula and…

Argues that empowering parents is the first step toward improving females' achievement in science. Describes the Sisters in Science (SIS) program that aims to unite the role of parents with the other factors that promote female success in science. Discusses policy and practical implications that can be drawn from the work of the SIS program.…

Overview of after-school programs describes the different objectives of school-age child care, youth development, and educational programs. Discusses the roles of the principal and community in supporting quality school-based programs. Summarizes views on after-school programs by the public, principals, and law-enforcement leaders. (MLF)

A community education center based on liberation theology principles was created by the Hispanic immigrant community to address educational needs of Hispanic youth. Interviews with 16 parents revealed that parent leadership was activated at the center and that children had benefitted academically from after-school homework assistance in a…

Describes the Voyager Program, a national educational initiative supporting elementary schools and teachers by providing essential supplies and a research-based curriculum. Reviews the role of selected community colleges in providing support for summer and after-school programs. (JDI)

Identifies key aspects of producing talent shows and outlines helpful hints for avoiding pitfalls and ensuring a smooth production. Presents suggestions concerning publicity, scheduling, and support personnel. Describes types of acts along with special needs and problems specific to each act. Includes a list of resources. (MJP)