Latest Round of Funding Expands the Empire State After-School Program to 80 Programs and More Than 34,000 Slots Statewide
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced $10 million in Empire State After-School Program funding is being awarded to 33 high-need school districts and community-based organizations. Now in its third year, the additional funds build on two years of growth with an additional 6,250 after-school program slots, bringing the total number of children served to more than 34,000 statewide.
«After-school programs help students stay on track and offer a positive and productive place for students to spend their after-school hours, giving parents peace of mind,» Governor Cuomo said. «By increasing the availability of after-school program slots, we can guide even more students to find the right path to success.»
Research shows that children who participate in quality after-school programs have better attendance, higher academic achievement, and are less likely to be involved in risky behaviors after the bell rings to close the school day.
As a condition of eligibility, school districts must adopt quality indicators such as a quality learning environment, staff-to-student interaction and student outcomes.
Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner Sheila J. Poole said, «After-school programs provide a fun and enriching way to improve academic and social success for children. Students receive academic support and can explore new activities and interests after the regular school day has ended.»
Board of Regents Chancellor Betty A. Rosa said, «Our strong after-school programs are safe, educational opportunities that provide a wide range of benefits. With more access, families are lifted up and the entire community thrives meaning this is a critical investment.»
Interim State Education Commissioner Shannon Tahoe said, «We are looking to support families in need throughout the entire day. Our community-based after-school programs help students in age-appropriate educational and recreational activities and offer more support for regular assignments. The Board of Regents and I are grateful to Governor Cuomo for giving students access to these safe, productive activities.»
AWARDEES
Long Island: $2.4M
| Amityville Union Free School District | $680,000 |
| Hempstead Union Free School District | $680,000 |
| YMCA of Long Island (serving Huntington Union Free School District) | $217,600 |
| Girl Scouts of Suffolk County (serving Riverhead Central School District) | $312,000 |
| Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk (serving Sachem Central School District) | $510,400 |
NYC: $4M
| District 2: Stanley M. Isaacs Neighborhood Center | $81,600 |
| District 4: «I Have A Dream» Foundation – NY | $73,600 |
| District 6: Fresh Youth Initiatives | $81,600 |
| District 8: Casita Maria | $408,000 |
| District 9: The Crenulated Company | $203,200 |
| District 10: NYC School District | $680,000 |
| District 12: East Side House | $441,600 |
| District 14: St. Nick’s Alliance Corporation | $353,600 |
| District 17: Kids Creative 404 | $163,200 |
| District 18: University Settlement Society of New York | $163,200 |
| District 19: Grand Street Settlement | $136,000 |
| District 20: New York City School District | $380,800 |
| District 21: NIA Community Services Network | $424,000 |
| District 22: CAMBA | $81,600 |
| District 23: I’Raise Girls & Boys International Corp. | $136,000 |
| District 28: Sheltering Arms Children and Family Services | $67,200 |
| District 29: Southern Queens Park Association | $78,400 |
| District 30: Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens | $46,400 |
Upstate Region: $3.6M
Hudson Valley
| East Ramapo Central School District | $680,000 |
| Peekskill City School District | $521,600 |
| Boys & Girls Club of Newburgh (serving Newburgh City School District) | $380,800 |
| Poughkeepsie City School District | $353,600 |
| Kingston City School District | $272,000 |
Central NY
| Syracuse City School District | $312,000 |
| Booker T. Washington Community Center of Auburn (serving Auburn City School District) | $163,200 |
Western NY
| Urban League of Rochester (serving Rochester City School District) | $136,000 |
| Boys & Girls Club of Buffalo (serving Buffalo City School District) | $408,000 |
Mohawk Valley
| Amsterdam City School District | $372,800 |
Importance of After-School
After-school programs give children the opportunity to thrive in an environment that encourages exploration and creative expression. They provide inspiring and enriching activities that the kids often do not receive elsewhere. After-school programs allow children to discover their potential and uncover their interests and be a part of their own community. After-school programs provide a structured and resourceful environment that invests in a child’s development – from social emotional development, to better understanding of their interests and goals, to identifying their likes and dislikes, to valuing team efforts and taking chances in a safe environment where they are mentored and encouraged.