The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time

House Increases Funding for After School Programs

2008-05-23T13:56:00.006-05:00

Since our last blog entry, the Senate and House Committee on Ways and Means, the Joint Committees on Education and Children, Youth and Families as well as other members of the Massachusetts Legislature have been examining the Special Commission's report and its recommendations in advance of the FY09 budget debate. This internal process allowed elected officials and their staff the opportunity to better understand the value of afterschool in the lives of the Commonwealth's children and youth.

As a result of this thoughtful process, the Massachusetts House of Representatives finalized their budget for FY09 on May 3. It is exciting to share that several statewide initiatives that fund afterschool programs saw important increases. This is particularly exciting considering the current fiscal climate in the state.

Representative Marie St. Fleur, the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means and the Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time, was successful in her efforts to increase funding for the Afterschool and Out-of-School Time (ASOST) Program Quality grant from $2M last year to $5M this year.

The Shannon Grant Program which provides funding for afterschool programs as part of its gang prevention efforts, saw a $2M increase from last year. Now $13M is available for funding statewide instead of $11M.

The Department of Public Health's Youth Violence Prevention grant also received more funding - $3M this year versus $2M from last year.

The Extended Learning Time Initiative also received more funding in the House budget. Funded last year at $13M, now $17.5M is available statewide to continue to help schools lengthen their school day.

The Senate passed their version of the budget on May 22. Additional information will be forthcoming about the status of the above afterschool program line items finalized in the Senate budget next week.

Special Commission Releases Report in Boston on Thursday, November 15

2007-11-17T09:53:00.001-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time released its report "Our Common Wealth: Building a Future for Our Children and Youth" on Thursday, November 15 at the State House in Boston. Covered by WBUR, WBZ, the Neighborhood Network News, the Dorchester News, the Metro and editorialized in The Boston Globe, the time children and youth spend in afterschool programs was heralded as key opportunity to develop the future leaders and citizens of Massachusetts.

Co-Chairs Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St. Fleur welcomed the crowd in Nurses Hall which included an opening icebreaker led by youth from the Center for Teen Empowerment. After acknowledgements were given by Representative Marie St. Fleur, Lynn D'Ambrose, from the Nellie Mae Education Foundation, spoke about the important role of afterschool programs from a funder's perspective. The Nellie Mae Education Foundation provided a matching grant to help support the Special Commission's work. Two youth speakers from WriteBoston and the United Teen Equality Center (UTEC) also talked about why afterschool programs were essential in their lives. The Co-Chairs then presented the initial findings and recommendations of the Commission. Fellow Commission members Senator Karen Spilka, Representative Alice Wolf, Representative Pam Richardson, Berna Mann, Lisa Pickard, Michael Cahill, Maryellen Coffey, Laurie Glassman, Carole Thomson, Debbie Kneeland, Rick Metters Joseph Gillis, Jr., Ben Lummis, Commissioner Ann Reale, Sally Fogerty, and Susan O'Connor were also introduced. Others who were deeply involved in the Special Commission's work were also on hand: Fran Barret, Kate Roper, Swapnil Maniar, Donna Trayhnam and Karyl Resnick.

Youth exhibits were featured from Express Yourself, Trinity Boston Foundation, Medicine Wheel Youth Group. Zumix provided two youth who played classical guitar at the closing reception.

The Boston Globe featured the Special Commission's work in an editorial published on November 17, 2007.

MASSACHUSETTS SPECIAL COMMISSION RELEASES REPORT ON AFTERSCHOOL TIME

2007-11-17T09:48:00.000-05:00

Comprehensive study details the critical need to engage 1.3 million youth

[Boston, MA] November 15, 2007 - Concluding seven months of research, the Massachusetts Special Commission on Afterschool and Out of School Time found that quality programs play a key role in making sure that young people realize their full potential to become well-rounded adults and responsible citizens. However, the Special Commission found that an estimated 80% of the Commonwealth’s children and youth are not currently participating in these programs because of cost, transportation, and other barriers.

Afterschool programs – referring to high quality activities that engage children and youth when they are not in school, including before and after school, week-ends, school vacations and during the summer – have proven to help students do better in school, live healthier, and gain and practice the critical skills that allow them to compete in the new economy. Afterschool programs also contribute to positive relationships among young people, which are critical to child and youth development, including healthy brain development.

At a State House event on Thursday, the Commission officially released their report “Our Common Wealth: Building a Future for Our Children and Youth.” The Special Commission found afterschool programs provide a unique opportunity where all the key domains of child and youth development are linked. Valuable lifelong benefits include a range of hands-on learning and interactions with caring adults and essential life skills such as teamwork, creative problem-solving, perseverance, conflict resolution, project management and leadership.

“We heard some amazing stories from kids across the state. Providing quality opportunities after school is essential to helping them become productive, future leaders in the Commonwealth,” said Senator Thomas McGee, Co-Chair of the Special Commission and Chair of the Labor and Workforce Development Committee. “Learning takes place at every hour of the day and in all of the places where young people spend their time. What are we doing to help them become the people they are meant to be and the future leaders that we need to help us address the complex issues of living in a global society? We need to recognize that and make sure all the places that our young people go are equipped to help them realize their full potential.”

The Special Commission found that afterschool programs provide a critical place for young people to develop positive relationships with their peers and with caring adults which become the foundation for their lifelong success. Their participation in high quality afterschool opportunities helps them gain employment, be in stable relationships, be more involved in their communities, trust their parents more, and be happy.

“It’s about the ‘We’ in our society,” noted Representative Marie St. Fleur, Co-Chair of the Special Commission and Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means. “We are responsible and both the public and private sectors should do everything we can. We have to do everything possible to support how our young people learn and grow when they are in or out of school. If we don’t, thousands of young people will continue to miss out on the types of activities that will help them succeed in life.”
-more-

Massachusetts has nearly 1.3 million children and youth; more than 850,000 are ages 5-14 and more than 400,000 are ages 15-19. Survey research estimates that only 20% or 260,000 are participating in afterschool programs statewide ages 5-14. The Commission found a significant gap in afterschool programs for older youth. The Commonwealth is only able to serve close to 6% or 70,000 children and youth with current state funding, leaving thousands of children and youth, or nearly 80%, without access to the enriching opportunities that are proven to help them become well-rounded individuals as well as future leaders of our state and nation.

Calling for specific actions in five key areas, the Special Commission recommends:

1) Increasing Public Awareness by creating a statewide public awareness campaign about the importance of afterschool programs in the development of children and youth.

2) Providing Information and Increasing Access by making it easier for parents to find out about afterschool programs statewide and for the state to collect more data that will help policymakers and funders better understand the need for afterschool programming across the Commonwealth.

3) Promoting Quality Programs and a Quality Workforce through the creation of a professional development fund, the enhancement and coordination of existing regional technical assistance centers, the systemic exploration of compensation and benefits to reduce the high turn-over rate; and formalizing a set of competencies and program measures to achieve quality standards.

4) Fostering Partnerships and Collaboration by creating public and private partnerships at state, regional and local levels to leverage existing revenue and resources already dedicated to this purpose. In particular the Special Commission calls for increased collaboration between schools and community-based organizations where school facilities, alternative transportation drop-offs and other strategies can be explored to increase access to quality afterschool program opportunities for children and youth. In addition, there are a number of other allies who want to be more involved in a coordinated effort to provide afterschool programs such as the Commonwealth’s library system, private and parochial schools, the Massachusetts Cultural Council and the network of municipal parks and recreation departments among others.

5) Sustaining the Effort to ensure the afterschool field has the sustained resources, policies and partners to help provide a stable continuum of quality afterschool experiences for children and youth by maximizing all the federal, state, local and private revenue coming to Massachusetts including full federal reimbursement. Other recommendations call for state agencies to work together to reduce the administrative barriers afterschool programs face when applying for funding.

Central to implementing the recommendations in these five areas is the proposed creation of a Statewide Afterschool and Out-of-School Time Public and Private Coordinating Council.

Comprised of senior leaders across a variety of disciplines, this group will bring together representatives from state and municipal governments, public safety, arts, libraries, parks and recreation departments, workforce development, business, higher education, private funders and youth, and other community leaders, to create a more unified and coordinated response to ensure that Massachusetts’ children and youth receive quality opportunities for all youth in the Commonwealth.

For access to the Special Commission’s full 160 page report, its 28 page Executive Summary, and Profiles of Selected Afterschool Programs in every Massachusetts Legislative District, visit the Special Commission's website .

Special Commission Releases Report in Springfield on Tuesday, November 13

2007-11-17T08:55:00.000-05:00

Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St.Fleur watching the Over the Top dancers at the North End Youth Center in Springfield on November 13, 2007. Photo courtesy of the Springfield Republican.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time released its report on Tuesday, November 13 at the North End Youth Center in Springfield. Covered by Channel 22, Channel 40, WFCR, Boston.com, and the Springfield Republican, the time children and youth spend in afterschool programs was heralded as key opportunity to develop the future leaders and citizens of Massachusetts.

Co-Chairs Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St. Fleur welcomed the crowd which included a spirited performance by the Over the Top Dancers followed by a presentation by both Co-Chairs about the initial findings and recommendations of the Commission. Fellow Commission members Michael Cahill, Gwynn Hughes, Debbie Kneeland, Rick Metters and Susan O'Connor were also introduced. Two youth speakers talked about why afterschool programs were important in their lives as well.

Youth exhibits were featured from the Brick House in Turners Falls, Citizen Schools in Springfield, Girls Inc. in Holyoke, the Connections Program in Holyoke, the NEARI Jump Start Program in Holyoke and Youth Leadership in the Arts in Northampton.

Click the below links for some of our media coverage:

1) Boston.com
2) Springfield Republican
3)Channel 22

Special Commission Prepares to Release Final Report

2007-11-07T04:11:00.001-05:00

Please join Co-Chairs, Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St. Fleur next week as they release the final report of the Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time . Report release events will be held on:

Tuesday, November 13, 5 PM - 7 PM - North End Youth Center, 1772 Dwight Street in Springfield

Thursday, November 15, 3 PM - 5 PM - State House, Nurses Hall in Boston

Youth and the work they have created in their afterschool programs will be featured.
An Executive Summary and a CD of the full report will also be made available.

Special Commission Extends Deadline to Receive Public Testimony

2007-10-23T17:45:00.000-05:00

Members of the public who have not yet had the chance to submit written testimony to the Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time will have until next Tuesday, October 30, to do so. Testimony can be submitted three different ways - through this blog, through the Special Commission's website or in writing.

Written testimony can be mailed to either of the Co-Chairs offices at:

Senator Thomas McGee
Room 112
The State House
Boston, MA 02133

or

Rep. Marie St. Fleur
Room 238
The State House
Boston, MA 02133

All previously submitted testimony, either written or presented verbally at any of the 10 public hearings, has been documented for the record and reviewed for the Special Commission's final report.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Co-Chairs Issue Statement in Support of National Lights On! Afterschool National Celebration - October 18, 2007

2007-10-17T18:45:00.000-05:00

For Release October 18, 2007

STATEMENT BY AFTER SCHOOL COMMISSION CO-CHAIRS - SEN. THOMAS MCGEE AND REP. MARIE ST. FLEUR REGARDING NATIONAL LIGHTS ON! AFTERSCHOOL CELEBRATION

“We salute the work of the Afterschool Alliance for their ongoing effort to promote quality afterschool programming for our nation’s youth. Today's national celebration will bring thousands of communities across the country together to highlight the need to provide meaningful opportunities for over 14 million children. As Co-Chairs of the Special Commission on Afterschool and Out of School Time, we’ve participated in hearings across the Commonwealth that focus on what’s working and what we need to improve upon here in Massachusetts. As the national Lights On! Afterschool Celebration points out, ‘Afterschool programs keep kids safe, help working families and inspire learning. They provide opportunities to help young people develop into successful adults.’ We look forward to releasing an official report next month that will help to advance this important issue here in the Commonwealth.”

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created 'to study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of that group, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been studying this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding ten public hearings, it has also convened three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas which will strengthen the Commonwealth's afterschool system.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Visit our : website.

Visit our blog.

Co-Chairs Announce Report Release Event Dates

2007-10-17T18:38:00.000-05:00

Sen. Thomas McGee and Rep. Marie St. Fleur have announced the dates for the release of the Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time's report. Members of the afterschool community and general public are encouraged to attend.

They will be held on:

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 IN WESTERN MA, 5:30 - 7:00 PM LOCATION TBD
and
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15 IN BOSTON, 3 PM - 4:30 PM AT THE STATE HOUSE

Additional information will be forthcoming regarding these events.

Special Commission Releases Issue Briefs

2007-10-14T16:46:00.000-05:00

Afterschool is a diverse and complex field. To more fully understand its breadth and depth, The Special Commission on Afterschool and Out of School Time commissioned eight Issue Briefs. Written by national experts based in Massachusetts, these briefs delve more deeply into:

*What afterschool is
*Why quality afterschool programs are important
*How sports, arts and cultural programs after school positively impact children and youth
*What barriers exist that prevent children and youth from participating in afterschool programs
*The opportunity summer provides for continued learning
*How to bridge school and and afterschool programs
*Engaging older youth

These briefs were made possible through a generous grant from the Nellie Mae Education Foundation. Click here to read each brief.

Issue Briefs in This Series

Movement Matters: Promoting Health and Well-Being Afterschool by Beth Beard

Learning in 3D: Arts and Cultural Programming in Afterschool by Dr. Julia Gittleman

Making the Case: Quality Afterschool Programs Matter by Dr. Georgia Hall and Diane Gruber (forthcoming)

Back to the Future: Engaging Older Youth by Dr. Georgia Hall and Diane Gruber (forthcoming)

Access to Afterschool Programs: Overcoming the Barriers to Getting Youth "in the Door" by Priscilla Little

The Realm of Afterschool... A World of Diversity by Priscilla Little

The Potential of Summer: Closing the Achievement Gap by Dr. Beth Miller

Bridging School and Afterschool by Dr. Gil Noam (forthcoming)

Site Visits Completed

2007-10-12T00:37:00.001-05:00

Special Commission Members Visit the United Teen Equality Center on September 18, 2007 and the Gregg Neigborhood House and Girls Inc. of Lynn on September 20, 2007.

The Massachusetts Special Commission had the pleasure of visiting 10 different afterschool programs throughout the Commonwealth as part of its public hearing process. Special Commission members had the opportunity to talk to afterschool providers as well as children and youth to learn more about their successes and challenges.

The programs that were visited are as follows:

•Pittsfield, May 1, Silvio O. Conte Community School
•Worcester, May 8, Boys and Girls Club of Worcester
•Framingham, May 29, MetroWest YMCA High Flight Program
•Quincy, June 7, South Shore Day Care s Atlantic Afterschool Program
•Dartmouth, July 19, Sgt. William Carney Academy
•Barnstable, September 11, Barnstable’s Recreation Dept. Afterschool Program
•Lawrence, September 18, United Teen Equality Center (UTEC)
•Lynn, September 20, Gregg Neighborhood House
•Lynn, September 20, Girls Incorporated of Lynn
•Boston, September 25, Roxbury Prep Charter School’s Enrichment Program

Thanks to all the programs who hosted members of the Special Commission. A lot was learned that will enhance the Special Commission's report when released later this fall.

Special Commission Completes Public Hearings

2007-10-11T23:13:00.000-05:00

Lynn Public Hearing, September 20, 2007 at North Shore Community College

Senator Tom McGee, Co-Chair of the Massachusetts After School and Out of School Time Commission, and Senator Susan Tucker listened to testimony at Northern Essex Community College in Lawrence.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on Afterschool and Out of School Time has completed its 10 public hearings as of September 25, 2007. Its tenth and final hearing was held in Boston at the Josiah Quincy Elementary School. Kicked off by testimony by Mayor Menino, the hearing was attended by over 100 people.

The other hearings were held at North Shore Community College in Lynn on September 20 and at Northern Essex Community College on September 18. The Lynn hearing was attended by over 100 people andSpecial Commission members heard testimony from a range of people until 10 PM. The Lawrence hearing also heard compelling testimony.

Prior to this, Special Commission members were on Cape Cod on September 11 at Barnstable Town Hall to listen to testimony from a variety of individuals.

All in all, nearly 250 attended the last four public hearings of the Special Commission. While much testimony was submitted during this process, members of the public have until Friday, October 19, 2007 to submit final testimony. Click here to submit testimony electronically.

Special Commission to Hold Final Hearing in Boston on September 20

2007-09-24T23:46:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
Announces Public Hearing
Special Commission to Convene Tenth and Final Public Hearing in Boston, September 25, 5 PM - 8 PM

Boston, Massachusetts - September 24, 2007 — The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces its tenth and final public hearing to be held at the Josiah Quincy Elementary School on Tuesday, September 25 from 5 PM - 8 PM in the Auditorium located at 885 Washington Street in Boston. Before the public hearing, from 3 PM—4 PM, the Special Commission members will be visiting the Roxbury Preparatory Charter School at 120 Fisher Avenue in Mission Hill. Founded in 1999 the Roxbury Preparatory Charter School is a 6-8 grade public school serving 200 students. Its mission is to prepare students to enter, succeed and graduate from college.

This Special Commission was created by the Massachusetts Legislature to "study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out of school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

Led by Senator Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), the Chair of the Senate's Labor and Workforce
Development Committee and Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Boston), the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, the 36 member Commission has committed to holding ten public hearings throughout the state to gather input about the Commonwealth's afterschool system. Youth, parents, community and faith-based providers, law enforcement officials, educators, funders, business and other community leaders are expected to attend and provide testimony.

"We have a historic opportunity to gain a better understanding of the importance of afterschool programs in the lives of children, youth and families," said Senator Thomas McGee. "Since a quality workforce is a linchpin of the afterschool system, we need to identify solutions to strengthen it. We look forward to gathering information from the public hearings and site visits that will help us figure out this and other ways to better serve children and youth when they are not in school."

"Currently, Massachusetts provides afterschool programs to approximately 20% of the
Commonwealth's school age population," noted Representative Marie St. Fleur. "It is well documented that the time period between 2PM and 6PM is the most hazardous, if unsupervised, for children of that age. It is clear that we need to closely examine how public/private partnerships can leverage existing resources to serve more children and youth to coordinate and strengthen a system of afterschool and expanded learning that promotes their healthy development. The public hearings and site visits will help us to hear from all stakeholders on this important matter."

“At Roxbury Prep, we believe that our students and families deserve enriching extended day/out of school time programs”, said Joshua Phillips, Co-Director of the Roxbury Preparatory Charter School. “Unfortunately, most out of school time activities are considered ‘extras’ by many schools and communities. However, we feel that they are an essential component of a child’s education and help us accomplish our mission of preparing students to enter, succeed in, and graduate from college.”

1.1 Million School Aged Children and Youth in Massachusetts
There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of that group, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time intends to study this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding the nine public hearings, it will also convene three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas which will strengthen the Commonwealth's
afterschool system.

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created 'to study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Visit Our Blog:
http://www.massafterschoolcomm.blogspot.com

Visit Our Website:
http://www.massafterschoolcomm.org

Special Commission Issues Press Release for Lynn Public Hearing

2007-09-19T23:41:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
Announces Public Hearing

Special Commission to Convene Ninth Public Hearing in Lynn, September 20,
5 PM - 8 PM

Boston, Massachusetts - September 19, 2007 — The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces its ninth public hearing to be held at the North Shore Community College on Thursday, September 20 from 5 PM - 8 PM in the Gymnasium of the McGee Building located at 300 Broad Street in Lynn. Before the public hearing, from 3 PM—4 PM, the Special Commission members will be visiting the Gregg House and Girls, Inc. of Lynn, located at 106 Broad Street and 112 Market Street in Lynn respectively. The Gregg Neighborhood House is a program that serves 280 children annually ages 5 through 13; they have 300 children on their waiting list for services. Girls Inc., of Lynn operates afterschool programs for girls ages 6—18.

This Special Commission was created by the Massachusetts Legislature to "study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out of school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

Led by Senator Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), the Chair of the Senate's Labor and Workforce
Development Committee and Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Boston), the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, the 36 member Commission has committed to holding ten public hearings throughout the state to gather input about the Commonwealth's afterschool system. Youth, parents, community and faith-based providers, law enforcement officials, educators, funders, business and other community leaders are expected to attend and provide testimony.

"We have a historic opportunity to gain a better understanding of the importance of afterschool programs in the lives of children, youth and families," said Senator Thomas McGee. "Since a quality workforce is a linchpin of the afterschool system, we need to identify solutions to strengthen it. We look forward to gathering information from the public hearings and site visits that will help us figure out this and other ways to better serve children and youth when they are not in school."

"Currently, Massachusetts provides afterschool programs to approximately 20% of the
Commonwealth's school age population," noted Representative Marie St. Fleur. "It is well documented that the time period between 2PM and 6PM is the most hazardous, if unsupervised, for children of that age. It is clear that we need to closely examine how public/private partnerships can leverage existing resources to serve more children and youth to coordinate and strengthen a system of afterschool and expanded learning that promotes their healthy development. The public hearings and site visits will help us to hear from all stakeholders on this important matter."

"What people don't realize is that school-aged afterschool programs are just as important as public school", said Kelly O'Connor, Director of the School-Aged Program at the Gregg Neighborhood House. "We spend on average 4.5 hours with a child and they spend 5 hours in public school. We closely align our activities with the Massachusetts Department of Education's curriculum frameworks to ensure that each child receives a quality learning experience. Kids should have the best you have to offer them." O'Connor further added that many of their staff participate in the North Shore Community College's School Aged Child Care Certificate Program. "We are glad that the Special Commission is particularly focusing on the issue of workforce and professional development. Sometimes the field does not get the important recognition it deserves."

1.1 Million School Aged Children and Youth in Massachusetts There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of that group, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time intends to study this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding the nine public hearings, it will also convene three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas which will strengthen the Commonwealth's
afterschool system.

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created 'to study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Visit Our Blog:
http://www.massafterschoolcomm.blogspot.com

Visit Our Website:
http://www.massafterschoolcomm.org

Massachusetts Special Commission Holds Eight Public Hearing in Lawrence

2007-09-17T23:34:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
Announces Public Hearing
Special Commission to Convene Eighth Public Hearing in Lawrence, September 18,
5 PM - 8 PM

Boston, Massachusetts - September 17, 2007 — The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces its eighth public hearing to be held at the Northern Essex Community College, on Tuesday, September 18 from 5 PM - 8 PM in the Louise Haffner Fournier Education Center, White Fund Room, First Floor (LA 101) 78 Amesbury Street in Lawrence. Before the public hearing, from 3 PM—4 PM, the Special Commission members will be visiting the United Teen Equality Center in Lowell. The United Teen Equality Center (UTEC) was created in 1999 as a response to gang violence. Located at 34 Hurd Street, UTEC serves 150 teens and older youth (13—23) daily in their education, street work, organizing and youth development programs—all at no cost.

This Special Commission was created by the Massachusetts Legislature to "study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out of school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

Led by Senator Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), the Chair of the Senate's Labor and Workforce
Development Committee and Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Boston), the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, the 36 member Commission has committed to holding ten public hearings throughout the state to gather input about the Commonwealth's afterschool system. Youth, parents, community and faith-based providers, law enforcement officials, educators, funders, business and other community leaders are expected to attend and provide testimony.

"We have a historic opportunity to gain a better understanding of the importance of afterschool programs in the lives of children, youth and families," said Senator Thomas McGee. "Since a quality workforce is a linchpin of the afterschool system, we need to identify solutions to strengthen it. We look forward to gathering information from the public hearings and site visits that will help us figure out this and other ways to better serve children and youth when they are not in school."

"Currently, Massachusetts provides afterschool programs to approximately 20% of the
Commonwealth's school age population," noted Representative Marie St. Fleur. "It is well documented that the time period between 2PM and 6PM is the most hazardous, if unsupervised, for children of that age. It is clear that we need to closely examine how public/private partnerships can leverage existing resources to serve more children and youth to coordinate and strengthen a system of afterschool and expanded learning that promotes their healthy development. The public hearings and site visits will help us to hear from all stakeholders on this important matter."

"Given the many challenge facing young people today, investment in youth programs that work with teenagers, specifically older youth, is at a critically important stage”, said Gregg Croteau, Executive Director of UTEC. “There is a very large need to institutionalize support for youth agencies so that we are not continually fighting on an annual basis for the allocation of funds. Ultimately, the professionalization of after-school and youth development programs needs to be seen as an essential service like so many other facets of our community's development. The Commission's efforts in professionalizing this field comes at a perfect time and we are very happy to be involved in their work."

1.1 Million School Aged Children and Youth in Massachusetts There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of that group, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer
opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time intends to study this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding the nine public hearings, it will also convene three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas which will strengthen the Commonwealth's
afterschool system.

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created 'to study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Visit Our Blog:
http://www.massafterschoolcomm.blogspot.com

Visit Our Website:
http://www.massafterschoolcomm.org

Commission Members Hear Testimony on Cape Cod on September 11

2007-09-15T20:45:00.001-05:00

Co-Chair Senator Thomas McGee (third from the left) and members of the Special Commission on After School and Out of School (from left to right), Donna Traynham, Rick Metters, Jess Torres (Sen. McGee's Legislative Aide), Deborah Kneeland, and Joseph Gillis, Jr., were in Barnstable for a hearing on how children and youth spend their time when not in school. The Special Commission is conducting 10 regional hearings and site visits around the state, receiving testimony from a broad array of people about the value and importance of programs for school age children and youth in their communities. For more information visit the Special Commission's website.

Special Commission Announces Locations for Remaining Public Hearings

2007-09-15T20:18:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces the locations for its three remaining public hearings. Please click the gray links, which will open up in new windows, for the hearing flyers and directions.

Tuesday September 18, 2007 Special Commission Public Hearing
Join us from 5 PM - 8 PM at the Northern Essex Community College in Lawrence, Massachusetts.
Tuesday September 18, 2007 Public Hearing Flyer.
Tuesday September 18, 2007 Public Hearing Directions.

Thursday September 20, 2007 Special Commission Public Hearing
Join us from 5 PM - 8 PM at the North Shore Community College in Lynn, Massachusetts.
Thursday September 20, 2007 Public Hearing Flyer.
Thursday September 20, 2007 Public Hearing Directions.

Tuesday September 25, 2007 Special Commission Public Hearing
Join us from 5 PM - 8 PM at the Josiah Quincy Elementary School in Boston, Massachusetts.
Tuesday September 25, 2007 Public Hearing Flyer.
Tuesday September 25, 2007 Public Hearing Directions.

Special Commission Issues Press Release for Cape Hearing

2007-09-10T20:12:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time Announces Public Hearing

Special Commission to Convene Seventh Public Hearing in Barnstable, September 11, 2007, 5 PM - 8 PM

Boston, Massachusetts - September 7, 2007 - The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces its seventh public hearing to be held at the Barnstable Town Hall, 367 Main Street in Hyannis on Tuesday, September 11, 2007, from 5 PM - 8 PM in the Town Council Chambers. Prior to the public hearing from 3 PM to 4 PM members of the Special Commission will be touring the Town of Barnstable's Parks and Recreation Program at the Horace Mann Charter School located at 730 Osterville-West Barnstable Road. This municipally operated program serves up to 200 5th and 6th graders in a variety of activities that promotes their physical fitness and overall well-being. The Special Commission also plans to tour the skateboard park as well as the site for their newly planned $24M youth center.
This Special Commission was created by the Massachusetts Legislature to "study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out of school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

Led by Senator Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), the Chair of the Senate's Labor and Workforce Development Committee and Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Boston), the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, the 36 member Commission has committed to holding at least nine public hearings throughout the state to gather input about the Commonwealth's afterschool system. Youth, parents, community and faith-based providers, law enforcement officials, educators, funders, business and other community leaders are expected to attend and provide testimony.

"We have a historic opportunity to gain a better understanding of the importance of afterschool programs in the lives of children, youth and families," said Senator Thomas McGee. "Since a quality workforce is a linchpin of the afterschool system, we need to identify solutions to strengthen it. We look forward to gathering information from the public hearings and site visits that will help us figure out this and other ways to better serve children and youth when they are not in school."

"Currently, Massachusetts provides afterschool programs to approximately 20% of the Commonwealth's school age population," noted Representative Marie St. Fleur. "It is well documented that the time period between 2PM and 6PM is the most hazardous, if unsupervised, for children of that age. It is clear that we need to closely examine how public/private partnerships can leverage existing resources to serve more children and youth to coordinate and strengthen a system of afterschool and expanded learning that promotes their healthy development. The public hearings and site visits will help us to hear from all stakeholders on this important matter."

"Our kids are everything to us," said Patti Machado, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation in Barnstable. "We've seen that kids that stay involved in any program and stay busy do better overall. This is important to us as we focus on the whole child and their well-being. We are trying to build the best community we can, one child at a time."

1.1 Million School Aged Children and Youth in Massachusetts
There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of that group, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time intends to study this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding the nine public hearings, it will also convene three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas which will strengthen the Commonwealth's afterschool system.

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created 'to study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time

For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Special Commission Announces Cape and Islands Hearing Location

2007-08-29T17:51:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time will be holding their seventh public hearing on Tuesday, September 11 from 5 PM - 8 PM at the:

Barnstable Town Council Chambers
Barnstable Town Hall
367 Main Street, Hyannis, MA

Please follow these directions to get there:

Take the Mid-Cape (Route 6) East to Exit 6 (Route 132/Iyannough Road). Take a right off the exit, and take Route 132/Iyannough Road approximately three miles to the Airport Rotary. Enter the rotary, and take your second right off the rotary onto Barnstable Road. Take Barnstable Road, approximately one mile to Main Street. Take a right onto Main Street, and go approximately one half mile to Pearl Street. Take a left onto Pearl Street, and then the first left onto South Street. The Town Hall parking lot will come up shortly on your left.

Here is a link to a map that shows the location of Town Hall. http://www.town.barnstable.ma.us/departments/directions.pdf

Special Commission Issues Report on Its Progress

2007-08-13T20:21:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has issued a report last Friday on its progress to-date. The report, which can be found on the Special Commission's website reveals the Special Commission's accomplishments. At this point, the Special Commission has:

*Held two full Special Commission meetings
*Presided over 6 public hearings
*Toured 5 diverse afterschool programs
*Convened the 3 Special Commission's Work Groups
*Launched the Special Commission's web site and blog

In the next four months the Special Commission will:

*Publish 8 Issue Briefs by Labor Day
*Preside over 4 public hearings in September
*Tour 4 diverse afterschool programs in September
*Hold at least two Special Commission meetings
*Continue to convene the Special Commission's Work Groups
*Draft and finalize the Special Commission's report

Nearly 250 people attended six public hearings so far in Springfield, Pittsfield, Worcester, Framingham, Quincy and Dartmouth with 66% of those who have testified on this important issue. Extensive media coverage of the Special Commission's work has also occurred.

For more information or questions about the Special Commission's Progress Report, please contact Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Special Commission at dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com.

Special Commission Revises Public Hearing Schedule

2007-08-08T16:52:00.001-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission has revised its public hearing schedule for September 2007. The public hearings will be held from 5 PM to 8 PM in each location and will now occur on:

September 11, 2007 - Cape and Islands (location TBD)

September 18, 2007 - Merrimack Valley (location TBD)

September 20, 2007 - Lynn (location TBD)

September 25, 2007 - Boston (location TBD)

Hearing locations will be forthcoming.

Dartmouth Public Hearing a Success!

2007-07-23T15:35:00.000-05:00

Co-Chairs Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St. Fleur are joined by Representatives Alice Wolf and Patricia Haddad and Commission Member Gwynn Hughes at UMass Dartmouth for a hearing on how children and youth spend their time when not in school on Thursday, July 19th.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time's sixth public hearing was a great success. Held in at UMASS-Dartmouth on Thursday, July 19th, over 40 people attended representing youth, parents, community-based providers, public education, and public safety perspectives on this critical issue to children, youth and families.

Co-Chairs Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St.Fleur convened the hearing and were joined by Representative Alice Wolf, a member of the Commission and Representative Patricia Haddad, the House Chair on Education. Additional Commission members in attendance were: Gwynn Hughes of MAP, Joseph Gillis Jr. of the MA Association of School Committees, Fran Barrett representing Commissioner Ann Reale of EEC, Associate Commissioner Sally Fogerty of DPH, Deborah Kneeland of MADCA, Ben Lummis of Mass2020, Michael Cahill of the YMCA's of MA, and Dr. Deborah Dancy of the MA Association of Elementary School Principals.

Prior to the public hearing, members of the Special Commission toured the afterschool program held at the Sgt. William H. Carney Memorial Academy in New Bedford. The Academy serves 150 children in afterschool programs during 5 weeks during the summer months. Members of the Special Commission viewed an arts-based afterschool program taught by Brick by Brick - one of the many community-based partners that NorthStar Learning Centers uses with funding from the 21st Century federal grant program. A special thanks to Bob French, the Director of Policy and Program Development of NorthStar Learning Centers, Asst. Superintendent Karen Treadup, and Patty McGrath, Executive Director of Brockton's Get on Base for arranging the site visit for Special Commission members.

The public hearing was covered by the New Bedford Times and the Fall River Herald News. The hearing was also taped by DCTV-18, New Bedford's Community Access Channel.

The remaining four public hearings for the Special Commission will be held in the fall on September 11, 13, 20 and 25 at locations to be announced.

Special Commission Announces Four Remaining Public Hearing Dates

2007-07-17T17:35:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has announced dates for its four remaining public hearings. Hearing locations have yet to be confirmed. The hearings will be held on:

Tuesday, September 11, 5 PM - 8 PM - REGION TBD

Thursday, September 13, 5 PM - 8 PM - REGION TBD

Thursday, September 20, 5 PM - 8 PM - REGION TBD

Tuesday, September 25, 5 PM - 8 PM - BOSTON

We look forward to your participation as the Special Commission continues to seek public comment about this very important issue.

Special Commmission Issues Press Release About July 19 Public Hearing

2007-07-16T21:24:00.001-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
Announces Public Hearing
Special Commission to Convene Sixth Public Hearing in Dartmouth, July 19, 5 PM - 8 PM

Boston, Massachusetts - July 16, 2007 — The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces its sixth public hearing to be held at the University of Massachusetts—Dartmouth, 285 Old Westport Road, in North Dartmouth on Thursday, July 19 from 5 PM - 8 PM in the Woodland Community Commons Conference Rooms 1 & 2. Before the public hearing, from 3 PM—4 PM, the Special Commission members will be visiting the Sgt. William H. Carney Memorial Academy’s summer program. Located at 247 Elm Street in New Bedford, the Carney Academy serves 60 elementary school students over a 5 week period emphasizing project-based learned to address the loss of learning that can occur over the summer.

This Special Commission was created by the Massachusetts Legislature to "study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out of school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

Led by Senator Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), the Chair of the Senate's Labor and Workforce
Development Committee and Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Boston), the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, the 36 member Commission has committed to holding ten public hearings throughout the state to gather input about the Commonwealth's afterschool system. Youth, parents, community and faith-based providers, law enforcement officials, educators, funders, business and other community leaders are expected to attend and provide testimony.

"We have a historic opportunity to gain a better understanding of the importance of afterschool programs in the lives of children, youth and families," said Senator Thomas McGee. "Since a quality workforce is a linchpin of the afterschool system, we need to identify solutions to strengthen it. We look forward to gathering information from the public hearings and site visits that will help us figure out this and other ways to better serve children and youth when they are not in school."

"Currently, Massachusetts provides afterschool programs to approximately 20% of the
Commonwealth's school age population," noted Representative Marie St. Fleur. "It is well documented that the time period between 2PM and 6PM is the most hazardous, if unsupervised, for children of that age. It is clear that we need to closely examine how public/private partnerships can leverage existing resources to serve more children and youth to coordinate and strengthen a system of afterschool and expanded learning that promotes their healthy development. The public hearings and site visits will help us to hear from all stakeholders on this important matter."

"There are many reasons why afterschool and summer programs are critical for New Bedford's children", said Bob French, the Director of Policy and Program Development for NorthStar Learning Centers. "School engagement and extended opportunities to learn skills are so important - particularly over the summer where children traditional lose ground academically. There has also been a lot of gun violence in New Bedford and this can discourage parents from letting their kids go outside. Afterschool programs offer a safe and enriching alternative to staying at home."

1.1 Million School Aged Children and Youth in Massachusetts
There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of that group, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time intends to study this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding the nine public hearings, it will also convene three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas which will strengthen the Commonwealth's
afterschool system.

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created 'to study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Visit Our Blog:
http://www.massafterschoolcomm.blogspot.com

Visit Our Website:
http://www.massafterschoolcomm.org

July 19 Public Hearing Location Announced

2007-06-29T14:14:00.000-05:00

The sixth public hearing of the Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time will be held on Thursday, July 19 from 5 PM - 8 PM at the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth campus, located at 285 Old Westport Road in North Dartmouth. The public hearing will be held in the Woodland Community Commons in Conference Room 1 & 2.

The remaining public hearings of the Special Commission will be held in the fall.

Sixth Public Hearing Scheduled for Southeastern MA

2007-06-25T13:47:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has announced its sixth public hearing. It will be held on Thursday, July 19 from 5 PM - 8 PM in the Southeastern region of the state. Additional details will be forthcoming regarding the public hearing location.

The four remaining public hearings will be held in the fall for the Cape & Islands, North Shore, Merrimack Valley and Greater Boston regions.

Please contact Debra McLaughlin at 617.792.3193 or at dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com if you have any questions.

The Special Commission Issues Press Release about its Fifth Public Hearing

2007-06-05T09:34:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time Announces Public Hearing

Special Commission to Convene Fifth Public Hearing in Quincy, June 7, 2007, 5 PM - 8 PM

Boston, Massachusetts - June 4, 2007 - The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces its fifth public hearing to be held at the Quincy City Hall, 1305 Hancock Street, in Quincy on Thursday, June 7, 2007, from 5 PM - 8 PM in the second floor conference room. Prior to the public hearing, members of the Special Commission will be touring the Atlantic After School program located at 136 Rawson Road in North Quincy, Massachusetts. Atlantic After School, operated by South Shore Day Care Services, is a community-based afterschool program serving 52 children K-5th grade.

This Special Commission was created by the Massachusetts Legislature to "study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out of school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

Led by Senator Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), the Chair of the Senate's Labor and Workforce Development Committee and Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Boston), the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, the 36 member Commission has committed to holding at least nine public hearings throughout the state to gather input about the Commonwealth's afterschool system. Youth, parents, community and faith-based providers, law enforcement officials, educators, funders, business and other community leaders are expected to attend and provide testimony.

"We have a historic opportunity to gain a better understanding of the importance of afterschool programs in the lives of children, youth and families," said Senator Thomas McGee. "Since a quality workforce is a linchpin of the afterschool system, we need to identify solutions to strengthen it. We look forward to gathering information from the public hearings and site visits that will help us figure out this and other ways to better serve children and youth when they are not in school."

"Currently, Massachusetts provides afterschool programs to approximately 20% of the Commonwealth's school age population," noted Representative Marie St. Fleur. "It is well documented that the time period between 2PM and 6PM is the most hazardous, if unsupervised, for children of that age. It is clear that we need to closely examine how public/private partnerships can leverage existing resources to serve more children and youth to coordinate and strengthen a system of afterschool and expanded learning that promotes their healthy development. The public hearings and site visits will help us to hear from all stakeholders on this important matter."

"We are so pleased that the Special Commission is taking the time to visit community programs," said Sheri Adlin, Executive Director of South Shore Day Care Services. "It is a great opportunity to observe and learn more about school aged care programs and the ways we can even better meet the needs of children and families."

1.1 Million School Aged Children and Youth in Massachusetts
There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of that group, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time intends to study this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding the nine public hearings, it will also convene three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas which will strengthen the Commonwealth's afterschool system.

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created 'to study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Visit Our Blog:
http://www.massafterschoolcomm.blogspot.com

Visit Our Website:
http://www.massafterschoolcomm.org

Fifth Hearing Announced for Quincy City Hall

2007-05-30T13:19:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time will hold its fifth public hearing in the South Shore region on THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 5 PM - 8 PM, QUINCY CITY HALL, SECOND FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM, 1305 HANCOCK STREET, QUINCY, MA, 617.376.1000. (Directions will be forthcoming).

Please feel free to circulate widely to your networks and contact me if you have any questions regarding the above.

Fifth Public Hearing Date Announced for South Shore - June 7 from 5 PM - 8 PM

2007-05-29T08:42:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has announced its fifth public hearing date. It will be held on Thursday, June 7 from 5 PM - 8 PM in the South Shore area. A hearing location has yet to be announced.

Special Commission Issues Press Release for Framingham Hearing

2007-05-25T16:59:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time Announces Public Hearing
Special Commission to Convene Fourth Public Hearing in Framingham, May 29,
5 PM - 8 PM

Boston, Massachusetts - May 22, 2007
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces its fourth public hearing to be held at the Cameron Middle School, 215 Elm Street, in Framingham on Tuesday, May 29, 2007 from 5 PM - 8 PM in the auditorium. Prior to the public hearing, members of the Special Commission will be touring the MetroWest YMCA's High Flight Program from 3 PM - 4 PM at their Hopkinton Branch located at 45 East Street. The High Flight program is an adventure based afterschool program that promotes leadership, self-confidence and social skills for youth and teens ages 12-17.

This Special Commission was created by the Massachusetts Legislature to "study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out of school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

Led by Senator Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), the Chair of the Senate's Labor and Workforce Development Committee and Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Boston), the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, the 36 member Commission has committed to holding at least nine public hearings throughout the state to gather input about the Commonwealth's afterschool system. Youth, parents, community and faith-based providers, law enforcement officials, educators, funders, business and other community leaders are expected to attend and provide testimony.

"We have a historic opportunity to gain a better understanding of the importance of afterschool programs in the lives of children, youth and families," said Senator Thomas McGee. "Since a quality workforce is a linchpin of the afterschool system, we need to identify solutions to strengthen it. We look forward to gathering information from the public hearings and site visits that will help us figure out this and other ways to better serve children and youth when they are not in school."

"Currently, Massachusetts provides afterschool programs to approximately 20% of the Commonwealth's school age population," noted Representative Marie St. Fleur. "It is well documented that the time period between 2PM and 6PM is the most hazardous, if unsupervised, for children of that age. It is clear that we need to closely examine how public/private partnerships can leverage existing resources to serve more children and youth to coordinate and strengthen a system of afterschool and expanded learning that promotes their healthy development. The public hearings and site visits will help us to hear from all stakeholders on this important matter."

The MetroWest YMCA's "High Flight" program for teens, which Special Commission members will witness in action, is "a unique and effective program using outdoor adventure challenges, group work and counseling to literally save the lives of the participants lucky enough to have the opportunity to participate," said Richard A. MacPherson, Director of Operations. "I have seen the impact first hand and have heard from parents their emotional testimonials about how this program has changed the life of their son or daughter." MacPherson further noted that, "It is our collective responsibility to work together to make the most effective use of our resources in order to support our kids and our families in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This Special Commission created by the state legislature to study the problems and to explore future strategies is both timely and essential."

1.1 Million School Aged Children and Youth in Massachusetts
There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of that group, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time intends to study this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding the nine public hearings, it will also convene three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas which will strengthen the Commonwealth's afterschool system.

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created 'to study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time

For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Visit Our Blog.

Visit Our Website.

May 29 Public Hearing Location Announced

2007-05-15T09:51:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time will be holding their fourth public hearing on May 29 from 5 PM - 8 PM at the Cameron Middle School located at 215 Elm Street in Framingham. The hearing will be held at their auditorium. Parking is available in the front, side and rear lots. Click here for the directions to the school.

If you are unable to attend this hearing, we look forward to receiving your comments either in writing or you can post them on-line at the Commission's website.

Thank you.

Debra McLaughlin
Consultant to the Commission

Fourth Public Hearing Scheduled for Framingham

2007-05-10T06:24:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has scheduled one public hearing. It will be held on Tuesday, May 29, 5 - 8 PM in Framingham at a location to be announced.

The remaining six public hearings, to be held in the Merrimack Valley, North Shore, Greater Boston, Southeastern MA, South Shore and the Cape and the Islands, will be scheduled for June 2007.

Special Commission Convened on May 9

2007-05-10T06:07:00.000-05:00

Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St. Fleur, Co-Chairs of the Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time, convened the second meeting of the full commission on Wednesday, May 9 from 4 PM - 6 PM at the State House.

Special Commission members had the opportunity to hear from Priscilla Little, the Associate Director of the Harvard Family Research Project and Dr. Beth Miller of Miller Midzik Research Associates. Both Ms. Little and Dr. Miller talked about the latest research which shows how participation in quality after school programs promotes positive outcomes in children and youth both academically as well as in social/emotional domains.

Their excellent presentations were follwed by an in-depth overview of the investments into afterschool made by the Massachusetts Department of Education (DOE) and the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Commissioner Ann Reale of EEC and Associate Commissioner Carole Thomson of DOE and her staff Karen Vigue, Donna Traynham, Karyl Resnick and Allison Ward provided a detailed briefing that allowed Special Commission members to better understand how these two state agencies are supporting a range of afterschool programs statewide and coordinating their efforts to serve the most high-need, at-risk children and youth.

The Special Commission has also scheduled the first meetings of their three work groups to be held later this month.

To-date, the Special Commission has held three public hearings. They have been in Springfield, Pittsfield and Worcester. A public hearing will be held in Framingham on May 29 at a location yet to be determined.

It is hoped that the Commission's blog, as well as its website, will serve as additional places for interested parties to provide comments and testimony regarding afterschool and out of school time opportunities.

Please contact me with any questions regarding the above information.

Thanks.

Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission

Third Public Hearing Successfully Held

2007-05-10T05:48:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time held its third public hearing at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Worcester on Tuesday, May 8.

Led by Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St. Fleur, 14 other Commission members heard testimony from 25 people during a three hour period. There was powerful testimony from a broad range of people including youth, community-based providers, educators, police officers, and funders - all of whom talked about the vital role afterschool programming has upon the young people in their communities. In all, 38 people attended the hearing.

Prior to the hearing, several Commission members were able to visit the Boys and Girls Club of Worcester at their new state of the art facility on Tainter Street in Worcester where 150 children ages 8 - 18 enjoy a range of club sponsored activities including basketball, swimming, boxing, access to state of the art computer labs, a homework center equipped with wireless internet services, and a music recording studio. They also serve 35 children in the school aged child care program. Due to extensive fundraising and other partnerships they have formed in the community, they only charge $10 a year for their services.

The hearing was taped and so we have it as part of the Special Commission's public record.

In addition to the Co-Chairs, the following Commission members and their representatives attended the hearing:

Rep. Alice Wolf - Cambridge
Rep. Pam Richardson - Framingham
Donna Avery-Cohen - Department of Early Education and Care
Fran Barrett - Department of Early Education and Care
Karyl Resnick - Department of Education
Cathy O'Connor - Department of Public Health
Debbie Kneeland - MADCA
Berna Mann - PACE
Ed Madaus - St. Agnes Guild
Michael Cahill - YMCA's of MA
Kathleen McDermott - MASS CAP
Gwynn Hughes - Massachusetts Afterschool Partnership
Rick Metters - Massachusetts Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs
Susan O'Connor - WestMOST Network

The next public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, May 29, 2007 in Framingham at a location yet to be announced.

Special Commission Issues Press Release About Worcester Public Hearing

2007-05-03T18:27:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time Announces Public Hearing

Special Commission to Convene Third Public Hearing in Worcester, May 8, 5 PM - 8 PM

Boston, Massachusetts - May 3, 2007
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces its third public hearing to be held at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Services' Worcester Campus, at 19 Foster Street in Worcester on Tuesday, May 8, 2007 from 5 PM - 8 PM in the first floor of the DeBenedictis Building.

This Special Commission was created by the Massachusetts Legislature to "study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out of school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

Led by Senator Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), the Chair of the Senate's Labor and Workforce Development Committee and Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Boston), the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, the 36 member Commission has committed to holding at least nine public hearings throughout the state to gather input about the Commonwealth's afterschool system. Youth, parents, community and faith-based providers, law enforcement officials, educators, funders, business and other community leaders are expected to attend and provide testimony.

"We have a historic opportunity to gain a better understanding of the importance of afterschool programs in the lives of children, youth and families," said Senator Thomas McGee. "Since a quality workforce is a linchpin of the afterschool system, we need to identify solutions to strengthen it. We look forward to gathering information from the public hearings and site visits that will help us figure out this and other ways to better serve children and youth when they are not in school."

"Currently, Massachusetts provides afterschool programs to approximately 20% of the Commonwealth's school age population," noted Representative Marie St. Fleur. "It is well documented that the time period between 2PM and 6PM is the most hazardous, if unsupervised, for children of that age. It is clear that we need to closely examine how public/private partnerships can leverage existing resources to serve more children and youth to coordinate and strengthen a system of afterschool and expanded learning that promotes their healthy development. The public hearings and site visits will help us to hear from all stakeholders on this important matter."

1.1 Million School Aged Children and Youth in Massachusetts
There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of that group, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time intends to study this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding the nine public hearings, it will also convene three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas which will strengthen the Commonwealth's afterschool system.

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created 'to study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time

For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Visit Our Blog and
Website

Second Public Hearing a Success

2007-05-03T18:10:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time held its second public hearing at the Ralph J. Froio Senior Center in Pittsfield on Tuesday, May 1.

Led by Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St. Fleur, 9 other Commission members heard testimony from 34 people during a three hour period. There was powerful testimony from a broad range of people including youth, community-based providers, educators, a public safety officer, and community librarian - all of whom talked about the vital role afterschool programming has upon the young people in their communities. In all, 52 people attended the hearing.

Prior to the hearing, several Commission members were able to visit the Conte Community School, also located in Pittsfield, where 125 elementary school aged children participate in a variety of afterschool programs supported by the 21st Century Community Learning Center grant as well as the state's After School and Out of School Time grant.

The public hearing was covered by WAMC and the site visit was taped by CBS6 - Albany, NY. Additionally the hearing was taped and so we have it as part of the Special Commission's public record.

In addition to the Co-Chairs, the following Commission members and their representatives attended the hearing:

Dr. Deborah Dancy - Massachusetts Association of Elementary School Principals
Erin Craft - Department of Early Education and Care
Donna Traynham - Department of Education
Cathy O'Connor - Department of Public Health
Debbie Kneeland - MADCA
Berna Mann - PACE
Gwynn Hughes - Massachusetts Afterschool Partnership
Rick Metters - Massachusetts Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs
Susan O'Connor - WestMOST Network

The next public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, May 8, 2007 in Worcester at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

Commission Issues Press Release About Pittsfield Public Hearing

2007-04-30T23:45:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time Announces Public Hearing

Special Commission to Convene Second Public Hearing in Pittsfield, May 1, 5 PM - 8 PM

Boston, Massachusetts - April 30, 2007
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces its second public hearing to be held at the Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North Street in Pittsfield on Tuesday, May 1, 2007 from 5 PM - 8 PM in their Main Room. Prior to the public hearing, Commission members will be touring the Conte Community School's afterschool program that focuses on academic and social enrichment activities for children in grades 1 through 5. The Conte Community School is located at 200 West Union Street in Pittsfield.

This Special Commission was created by the Massachusetts Legislature to "study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out of school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

Led by Senator Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), the Chair of the Senate's Labor and Workforce Development Committee and Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Boston), the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, the 36 member Commission has committed to holding at least nine public hearings throughout the state to gather input about the Commonwealth's afterschool system. Youth, parents, community and faith-based providers, law enforcement officials, educators, funders, business and other community leaders are expected to attend and provide testimony.

"We have an historic opportunity to gain a better understanding of the importance of afterschool programs in the lives of children, youth and families," said Senator Thomas McGee. "Since a quality workforce is a linchpin of the afterschool system, we need to identify solutions to strengthen it. We look forward to gathering information from the public hearings and site visits that will help us figure out this and other ways to better serve children and youth when they are not in school."

"Currently, Massachusetts provides afterschool programs to approximately 20% of the Commonwealth's school age population," noted Representative Marie St. Fleur. "It is well documented that the time period between 2PM and 6PM is the most hazardous, if unsupervised, for children of that age. It is clear that we need to closely examine how public/private partnerships can leverage existing resources to serve more children and youth to coordinate and strengthen a system of afterschool and expanded learning that promotes their healthy development. The public hearings and site visit will help us to hear from all stakeholders on this important matter."

1.1 Million School Aged Children and Youth in Massachusetts
There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of that group, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time intends to study this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding the nine public hearings, it will also convene three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas which will strengthen the Commonwealth's afterschool system.

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created 'to study and recommend how to' define and 'better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time

For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Visit Our Blog and
Website

May 8 Public Hearing Announced

2007-04-26T15:15:00.000-05:00

We are pleased to announce that the third public hearing for the Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time will be held on Tuesday, May 8, 2007 from 5 PM - 8 PM in Central Massachusetts at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences at their Worcester campus.*

The Worcester Campus of the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is located at 19 Foster Street in downtown Worcester. The hearing will be held in the DeBenedictis Building Auditorium 1 located on the left hand side once you enter the building right across from the security desk. Plenty of parking exists in the City Square Garage also known as the Worcester Common outlets. Look for a flyer to be forthcoming that you can distribute to your networks publicizing our third hearing.

We hope to announce other hearing dates and locations in May shortly.

If you are planning to attend the May 8 hearing or have any questions regarding the above, please contact, Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission at dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com or at 617.792.3173.

Thanks again and we look forward to working with you to ensure the success of our third public hearing.

Sincerely,

Senator Thomas McGee
Representative Marie St. Fleur
Co-Chairs

This link provides information on how to get to the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Worcester Campus.

May 1 Public Hearing Location Announced

2007-04-23T12:55:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time will be holding their second public hearing on May 1 from 5 PM - 8 PM at the Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, (formerly the site of the Capitol Theater), 330 North Street in Pittsfield, MA.

If you are unable to attend this hearing, we look forward to receiving your comments either in writing or you can post them on-line at the Commission's website .

Thank you.

Debra McLaughlin
Consultant to the Commission

Next Commission Hearings Scheduled for May 1 and May 8

2007-04-12T18:45:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has scheduled two more public hearings. They will be held on Tuesday, May 1, 2007 from 5 PM - 8 PM in Pittsfield and on Tuesday, May 8, 2007 from 5 PM - 8 PM in Central Massachusetts. Hearing locations have yet to be determined.

First Public Hearing in Springfield a Success

2007-04-12T18:29:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time held its first public hearing at Springfield Technical Community College on Tuesday, April 10.

Led by Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St. Fleur, 12 other Commission members heard testimony from nearly 30 people over a four hour period. There was riveting testimony especially from older youth who talked about the role afterschool programs play in keeping them safe from drugs and gun violence. In all approximately 50 people attended the hearing.

The public hearing was covered by the Springfield Republican and a brief clip about the hearing appeared on Channel 40. Additionally the hearing was taped and we will submit it to air on Springfield's Public Access TV Channel.

In addition to the Co-Chairs, the following Commission members and their representatives attended the hearing:

Erin Craft - Department of Early Education and Care
Donna Traynham - Department of Education
Ben Lummis - Massachusetts 2020
Cathy O'Connor - Department of Public Health
Gerry Ruane - Massachusetts Teachers Association
Debbie Kneeland - MADCA
Mike Cahill - YMCA's of Massachusetts
Berna Mann - PACE
Gwynn Hughes - Massachusetts Afterschool Partnership
Rick Metters - Massachusetts Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs
Susan O'Connor - WestMOST Network
Sharon Scott-Chandler - ABCD Boston

The next public hearings are scheduled for Tuesday, May 1, 2007 in Pittsfield from 5 PM - 8 PM and for Tuesday, May 8, 2007 in Central Massachusetts at locations to be announced.

Special Commission's Web Site Launched

2007-04-12T18:13:00.000-05:00

The Special Commission has launched its website. The Special Commission's vision and purpose, its public hearing schedule and other information are posted for the purposes of sharing information about the Special Commission's efforts. There is also a section where the public can e-mail us their comments regarding the Commission's work as separate mail boxes have been set up to accept testimony in the areas of 1) Information and Access; 2) Quality, Workforce and Professional Development; 3) Sustainability; 4) Crosscutting Issues and 5) Other Issues. We hope that the website, in addition to this blog, will provide another forum for public comment.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Commission Issues Press Release About April 10 Hearing

2007-04-06T09:39:00.000-05:00

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time

Announces First Public Hearing

Special Commission to Convene First Public Hearing in Springfield, April 10, 5 PM - 8 PM

Boston, Massachusetts - April 6, 2007 - The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time announces their first public hearing to be held at Springfield Technical Community College on Tuesday, April 10 from 5 PM - 8 PM in their auditorium.

This Special Commission was created by the Massachusetts Legislature to study and recommend how to define and "better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out of school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts."

Led by Senator Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), the Chair of the Senate's Labor and Workforce Development Committee and Representative Marie St. Fleur (D-Boston), the Vice-Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, the 36 member Commission has committed to holding at least nine public hearings throughout the state to gather input about the Commonwealth's afterschool system. Youth, parents, community and faith-based providers, law enforcement officials, educators, funders, business and other community leaders are expected to attend and provide testimony.

"We have an historic opportunity to gain a better understanding of the importance of afterschool programs in the lives of children, youth and families," said Senator Thomas McGee. "Since a quality workforce is a linchpin of the afterschool system, we need to identify solutions to strengthen it. We look forward to gathering information from the public hearings that will help us figure out this and other ways to better serve children and youth when they are not in school."

"Currently, Massachusetts provides afterschool programs to approximately 20% of the Commonwealth's school age population," noted Representative Marie St. Fleur. "It is well documented that the time period between 2PM and 6PM is the most hazardous, if unsupervised, for children of that age. It is clear that we need to closely examine how public/private partnerships can leverage existing resources to serve more children and youth to coordinate and strengthen a system of afterschool and expanded learning that promotes their healthy development. The public hearings will help to hear from all stakeholders on this important matter."

1.1 Million School Aged Children and Youth in Massachusetts
There are 1.1 million school aged children and youth ages 5-18 that live in Massachusetts. Of those, 720,000 are children ages 5-13 and 380,000 are youth ages 14-19. Current state funding serves 205,500 children and youth leaving nearly 80% without access to quality and enriching afterschool and summer opportunities.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time intends to study this issue more in-depth. In addition to holding the nine public hearings, it will also convene three working groups that will 1) analyze information and access issues; 2) identify quality, workforce and professional development concerns, and 3) determine how the afterschool system in the Commonwealth can be sustained. The Special Commission expects to issue a report in the fall of 2007 that will have recommendations in these areas to strengthen the Commonwealth's afterschool system.

About The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created to study and recommend how to define and better coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable, and quality out-of-school time programming for school age children in all settings in Massachusetts.

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time
For More Information Contact:
Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission
dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com
617.792.3173

Visit Our Blog:

http://www.massafterschoolcomm.blogspot.com/

FIRST COMMISSION HEARING SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, APRIL 10, 5 PM - 8 PM

2007-03-26T15:43:00.001-05:00

THE MASSACHUSETTS SPECIAL COMMISSION ON AFTER SCHOOL AND OUT OF SCHOOL TIME ANNOUNCES ITS FIRST COMMISSION HEARING IN SPRINGFIELD

We are pleased to announce that the first public hearing for the Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time will be held on Tuesday, April 10, 2007 from 5 PM - 8 PM in Western Massachusetts at Springfield Technical Community College's Auditorium. Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) is located at One Armory Square in Springfield.

We look forward to your thoughtful participation at this hearing as the Special Commission works to define how best to support children and youth in and out of school. Commission members are interested in hearing from a broad spectrum of people including parents, youth, schools, community-based providers, faith-based organizations, police, libraries, municipalities, business, and other interested parties at this hearing.

If you cannot attend this public hearing, we invite you to post comments on this blog.

We will be holding a second public hearing in Western Massachusetts in the Berkshires but that date and time has yet to be confirmed.

Thanks again and we look forward to working with you to ensure that our first public hearing is a success.

Sincerely,

Senator Thomas McGee
Representative Marie St. Fleur
Co-Chairs

The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time has been created by the Massachusetts Legislature to help define what is needed to support the healthy development of children and youth in and out of school.

First Commission Meeting Successfully Held

2007-03-23T13:46:00.000-05:00

Greetings.

The first meeting of the Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time was held yesterday at the State House. Convened by Senator Thomas McGee and Representative St. Fleur, the Co-Chairs of the Special Commission, members had their first opportunity to see and comment on the Commission's proposed work plan and time line moving forward.

Key decisions arrived at the meeting include:

To rename the proposed 3 working groups to 1) Information & Access; 2) Quality, Workforce and Professional Development; and 3) Sustainability
To obtain as much data from Commission members to understand the current funding streams and numbers of children/youth served from other public agencies, municipalities, schools, community-based organizations, parent fees, among others

The first public hearing of the Commission will be held Tuesday, April 10, from 5 PM - 8 PM in Western Massachusetts. Logistical details are still being worked out and will be confirmed shortly.

Additional hearings have been scheduled for May 1 and May 8 from 5 PM - 8 PM likely in the Central and Northeastern regions of the Commonwealth. More information confirming hearing locations will be forthcoming.

It is hoped that the Commission's blog, as well as its forthcoming web site, will serve as additional places for interested parties to provide comments and testimony regarding afterschool and out of school time opportunities.

Please contact me with any questions regarding the above information.

Thanks.

Debra McLaughlin, Consultant to the Commission

First Commission Meeting - March 22 at 3:30 PM

2007-03-18T17:50:00.000-05:00

Greetings.

Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St. Fleur, Co-Chairs of the Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time, will be convening the first meeting of the Commission on Thursday, March 22 from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM in Room 350 at the State House.

Look for more information about the Commission's work including a schedule of upcoming hearings to be posted on this blog.

Thanks.

Debra McLaughlin
Consultant to the Commission

Welcome to the Massachusetts After School and Out of School Time Commmission Blog

2007-03-17T22:50:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

We have an historic opportunity to work together to help define what children and youth need to thrive both in and out of school. We look forward to your comments as the Massachusetts' Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time works to "coordinate, expand, finance and improve accessible, affordable and quality out-of-school time programming for school aged children in all settings"* across the Commonwealth.

Out of the 1.1. million school aged children and youth in the Commonwealth, over 80% are without access to safe and enriching opportunities when they are out of school. Your help and input is needed so all children and youth can get the support they need in their out of school hours.

If you have any questions about the Commission's work or how to use this blog, please contact me at dmclaughlin@kunnusta.com.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Debra McLaughlin
Consultant to the Commission
*After School Commission Budget Language