 |
Alaska State Legislature House and Senate Democrats |
WEB: CONTACT: PHONE: FAX: EMAIL: |
http://www.akdemocrats.org Jordan Marshall, Press Secretary (907) 269-0133 or 321-3682 (907) 269-0132 press@akdemocrats.org |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE · February 16, 2004 |
Support for Before and After School Programs
Senator Ellis Calls on Congressional Delegation and State of Alaska to Do More
JUNEAU - Citing the need for continued and increased statewide support for before and after school programs (BASP), Senate Democratic Leader Johnny Ellis (D-Anchorage) last week introduced Senate Joint Resolution 29. SJR29 encourages our congressional delegation to work in support of before and after school programs; it also directs the Department of Education & Early Development to provide assistance to school administrators, teachers, and parents regarding programs; and it creates a statewide network for before and after school programs.
"Research consistently shows that before and after school programs benefit not only the child, but the family and the community. They provide a safe and stimulating environment for children during their out-of-school time. This is especially true for working Alaskan families," said Senator Ellis. As many as 110,000 school age children in Alaska are going home to an empty house after school, the Senator added. "Affordable after school programs can allow parents to finish their work day with the reassurance that their children are safe."
Recent changes at both the state and federal level, including the new High School Qualifying Exam and the under-funded federal mandate of No Child Left Behind, are compelling reasons to provide support for before and after school programs (BASP). Students in Alaska can benefit from additional opportunities to receive help with their schoolwork. Also, research has shown participation in before and after school programs can increase standardized test scores in subjects such as reading and math.
"Many programs currently offered are full, such as those with Boys and Girls Clubs and Campfire Alaska, and many children are on waiting lists," said Sen. Ellis. "I believe we have an obligation to Alaska’s children and families to do our best to help them succeed."
###
·
 http://www.akdemocrats.org/Documents/021604_ellis_supports_school_programs.pdf · Additional information: SJR29 Senator Johnny Ellis |
|