Girl smiles at camera while making a structure out of Popsicle sticks“Lights on After School” is a nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs. At Troy Middle School, visitors will have an opportunity to tour the various 21st Century Program offerings. City of Troy Mayor Patrick Madden to issue proclamation naming October 26 “Lights on After School Day” in Troy, NY.

Thursday, October 26
Troy Middle School
4 – 5 p.m. Program tours
5 – 5:15 p.m. Remarks and Mayor’s proclamation

Female student models LED lit neck tieThe 21st Century After School Program supports the creation of community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children, particularly students who attend high-poverty schools. The program helps students meet state and local standards in core academic subjects, such as reading and math; offers students a broad array of enrichment activities that can complement their regular academic programs; and offers literacy and other educational services to the families of participating children.

At Troy CSD, the 21st Century After School Program supports approximately 625 students in Grades 5-8. Program offerings provide academic enrichment opportunities, arts and crafts, culinary arts, music, recreation, science, technology, engineering, project-based learning, and youth development activities during non-school hours. Community partners include Troy City Music Hall, Commission on Economic Opportunities (CEO), Troy Family YMCA, The Arts Center, St. Anne’s Institute and Cornell Cooperative Extension. https://www.troycsd.org/programs/21st-century-after-school-program/

Launched in October 2000, “Lights On Afterschool” is the only nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs and their important role in the lives of children, families and communities. The event is a movement to support after school programs and push for continued funding for our kids to continue receiving the services that they so desperately need. http://www.afterschoolalliance.org/loa.cfm