Newsletters

As California begins to re-open and conversations continue about what school looks like this fall we still very much sit in the midst of two pandemics, COVID-19 and racism. The children and families who rely on our state’s publicly funded afterschool programs are disproportionately affected by the current crises. Nine out of 10 children are children of color, and 84% are socioeconomically disadvantaged. A third of students in After School Education and Safety (ASES) programs are English language learners, and 25% are experiencing homelessness.

Every year in May many promote mental health wellness and combating mental health stigma with Mental Health Awareness Month. This May, as we continue to experience the COVID-19 pandemic we have seen an increased focus on health worldwide, and recognition that health includes mental health. That being said, our field has long recognized the importance of supporting the social, emotional, and mental well-being of our youth, staff, families, and communities.

We know that the last few days and weeks have not been easy for anyone, and many folks have been faced with difficult decisions and challenges. Many of the afterschool staff and the children, youth, and families we serve already deal with many fears and trauma. While we cannot physically gather with one another - this is a time for our community to come together and support one another. As we all work to navigate the impacts of COVID-19 (coronavirus ) we want you to know that the entire team at the California AfterSchool Network is here for you.

We know #AfterschoolWorks – in fact, CAN just released our most recent State of the State of Expanded Learning for California that highlights the many ways afterschool works for California’s students, families, and communities.

Since our last newsletter, we received some good news and some bad news for afterschool funding.

Be Kind to Yourself and Each Other This Holiday Season

We Look Forward to All That We Will Do Together in 2020

Last year, I shared what I learned with my children about the holiday season from watching Sesame Street. “It’s all about kindness.” As I sat to write my reflection this year, that theme remains particularly relevant. With that in mind, and In that spirit of giving this holiday season I’d like to share a song with you called, Be More Kind.

We know the life-changing impact afterschool programs can have on children, families, and communities. 

A couple of weeks ago Fight Crime: Invest in Kids released a new report that reinforces the vital role that afterschool programs play in turning the hours after school, and before parents return home from work, into a time of learning and growth for our young people.

It’s October, the fall season has officially begun, and we are weeks away from the 20th Annual Lights On Afterschool celebration, which is a wonderful reminder that we can and should advocate for after school all year round! Now is the time to engage your communities and elected officials, and remind them how essential our programs are to supporting children and youth all across California.

For many of us school is back in session which is a great time to kick off your advocacy efforts. Our state legislature and Congress are also back in the swing of things and making crucial decisions that impact our youth.