WHEREAS the hours of 3 to 6 p.m. have been deemed peak hours for juvenile crime while an estimated 15 million children go to an empty house on any given afternoon, and
WHEREAS After School Education and Safety and 21st Century Community Learning Center After School Safety and Enrichment for Teens programs provide the gift of time, offering the equivalent of an additional 90 instructional days annually to support student achievement, enrichment, and development, and
WHEREAS it is imperative that community educators stand firmly committed to sustaining quality expanded learning programs and opportunities because they:
- Engage students in meaningful, active, and collaborative learning opportunities that support mastery and expand students’ horizons
- Provide safe and supportive environments for students to access and participate in active and engaging learning experiences that support skill building, academic achievement, healthy choices and behavior, and youth leadership
- Develop children’s and youth’s social, emotional, physical, and academic skills
- Support working families by ensuring their children are safe and productive after the regular school day ends
- Build stronger communities by engaging families, schools, and community partners to advance the welfare of our children; and
WHEREAS Lights on Afterschool will be observed across America on Oct. 20, 2022; and
WHEREAS the San Diego County Office of Education will demonstrate its commitment to sustaining quality expanded learning programs by supporting Lights on Afterschool events across San Diego County.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the San Diego County Board of Education observes Lights on Afterschool on Oct. 20, 2022, and encourages all school employees, expanded learning program providers, parents, community leaders, and students to participate in Lights on Afterschool events, making a visible statement of our commitment that the lights stay on and the doors stay open for all children after school.
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