Afterschool Alliance

The reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Act will have critical impact on the major funding streams that support afterschool programs including the 21^st Century Community Learning Centers, Title I, Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities, School Improvement Funds, and Supplemental Educational Services. It is extremely important for afterschool voices to be heard on Capitol Hill on the major priorities in ESEA that will impact funding for afterschool. Here are some tips and resources to take action and support afterschool funding in the reauthorization of ESEA:

Call, mail, fax your Members of Congress and ask them to:

Increase federal support for quality 21st CCLC and afterschool programs.
Maintain 21st CCLC funding for quality afterschool, before-school and summer programs, and not divert these needed dollars for other purposes.
Maintain the state level competitions, with each state receiving funding by formula through the 21st CCLC program.
Ensure that community based organizations be true partners with school districts and have access to 21st CCLC funding.

Educate yourself and your community about ESEA’s impact on afterschool

Host a Member of Congress at your Afterschool or Summer program site.

Plan and hold a Lights On Afterschool celebration to bring attention to the continued need for federal afterschool program funding.

Resources

Visit our Legislative Action Center and Policy News for the latest updates
The Coalition for Afterschool in ESEA is comprised of over 50 local, state and national organizations who are concerned about the future of afterschool in ESEA. These organizations have all agreed to help make sure that policymakers pay attention to the afterschool needs of youth, families and communities during reauthorization. If you would like to learn more about the coalition for Afterschool in NCLB, please email our Policy Director, Erik Peterson.

Supporting Afterschool through ESEA - Tips and Resources for Advocates