Where we were during Lights On Afterschool 2023

Students at Life Pieces to Masterpieces in Washington, D.C.

Student artwork from Falls Church

Afterschool Alliance staff members were out and about at afterschoool programs during Lights On Afterschool 2023. Here are a few snapshots of events they participated in. For even more Lights On Afterschool event recaps, check out our recent blog, "Lights On Afterschool: Where on earth is Chris Neitzey?"

Liana Shivers, Engage Every Student Fellow: It felt so wonderful to be at a program again. I visited a small program in Falls Church, VA, run by Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services. They serve about 80 youth, mostly from immigrant families, and run a cooking club, a Lego STEM program, beauty club, arts and crafts and different sports Monday through Friday. On October 26, they had different artwork youth had created during the program on display and some youth did a boxing demonstration. Many of their families were there, so it was wonderful to see parents’ excitement for everything the students have been doing in their afterschool program.

Janelle at Lights On Math in Maryland

Janelle Cousino, Senior Adviser: I was at the Lights On Math in OST event with Ellie Mitchell of the Maryland Out of School Time Network. Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, who has a degree in civil engineering, delivered a very interesting keynote about equity, math, and future careers headed to Maryland through the federal investment in bio-tech and cybersecurity. Daryl Williams, former Superintendent of Baltimore County Schools (now professor at Morgan State University) was also a featured speaker.  He provided excellent information about math, learning by doing, teaching in school and the unique role that afterschool and summer play in helping students get to like math and to see how useful math is in everyday activities.

Jen Rinehart, Senior Vice President, Strategy and Programs: Thank you to everyone who put in the work to make the Life Pieces to Masterpieces event (in Washington, D.C.) such a great success. I have to share that being at the event really refilled my cup last night. The community and love that was so evident there was such a shining example of what a good afterschool program can offer to youth and families. Dep Sec Marten was incredible. Jodi did a terrific job representing us. DC Chancellor Ferebee was an inspiration to all. And, as usual, the youth stole the show. The young man, Deanthony, who kicked things off had such a stage presence and was great with the younger kids in the classroom, and our DC youth ambassador, Issa, is one to watch for sure! The red carpet welcome for the youth made me tear up - what an amazing place and set of supports for young people!

Attendees of the YMCA of the Pines Lights On event

Jillian Luchner, Policy Director: I visited the YMCA of the Pines in Medford New Jersey. This program serves 750 students across eight school sites, including an on-site summer and year-round campground which is gorgeous. They also offer care for vacation days -- like Labor Day etc. Executive Director Becca Gutwirth used relief funds to pay her staff well, and get them training in supporting students with special needs. She herself was a special education teacher before this career. The event was on the YMCA campground -- it was a super beautiful spot! Kids arrived after coming from their programs at the school sites, around 6 p.m. and started outside playing "Gaga" Israeli dodgeball on the new court built with relief funds. Then everyone came inside for some arts and crafts, games, and catapult making, before sharing a great dinner cooked by camp staff - corn, sweet potatoes, chicken, fruit, and salad. It was enough fun to make anyone who has had a chance to be a camper miss camp. And, of course, the night was capped off with outdoor campfire smores. The staff, families, and children were all wonderful!