All parents are familiar with the hustle and bustle of preparing our kids to head back to school in the fall, but new state funding has unlocked an enormous potential Los Angeles’s working families shouldn’t ignore. Now is the time parents should be asking themselves: What are my kids going to be doing after school this year?
As a lifelong advocate for children and families in Los Angeles, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of afterschool programs. These programs do more than just fill the hours after school; they unlock potential in our young people, especially in African American communities where access to enriching activities outside of school hours can make a profound difference in a child’s life.
At LA’s BEST — an afterschool enrichment program serving more than 200 elementary schools across Los Angeles — we see every day how expanded learning opportunities can change trajectories. With California’s historic $4 billion investment in the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P), we have an unprecedented opportunity to fortify these lifelines that boost academics, tackle hunger, and provide essential care, helping students and their families thrive – all at no cost to families.
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Afterschool programs provide a structured, safe environment where children can learn and grow. They offer academic assistance, mentorship, and activities that foster social-emotional development and wellness. These programs provide invaluable stability to working families.
For African American families in Los Angeles, these programs are not just beneficial; they are necessary. They help bridge the gap caused by educational inequities and provide students with opportunities often unavailable during the regular school hours. From coding classes to art workshops and sports, afterschool programs offer pathways to new skills and interests, which are vital for holistic development. At LA’s BEST, these activities allow for students to explore their interests, stoking curiosity and building a mindset of lifelong learning.
The support from these programs extends beyond the students; it uplifts entire families. Parents gain peace of mind knowing their children are in a safe, enriching environment after school, allowing them to pursue employment or education opportunities that might otherwise be challenging to access due to childcare concerns. For many communities, especially those struggling with the costs of living, these programs are a lifeline, making up a significant part of the support system for working families.
However, the promise of these programs can only be fulfilled if families take action. There is a sense of urgency now as spaces in these programs are available but underutilized. Every unused spot is a missed opportunity for growth and development.
I urge every parent and guardian in our community to explore the options available through ELO-P. These programs are funded and designed to serve your children, to enhance their education, and to support your family’s overall well-being. They are a chance to ensure your child does not just succeed but thrives.
By enrolling your child in one of these no-cost programs, you are not only taking full advantage of critical resources but also investing in your child’s future and the future of our community. Let’s ensure every child in Los Angeles has the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. Enroll today and join a movement that is reshaping the landscape of education and opportunity in our city.
Together, we can transform lives and build a brighter future for all our children. Don’t let this chance slip by—act now to give your child the afterschool advantage.
For more information on how to enroll, please check out programs available in LAUSD or review the Family Guide to Afterschool for All to guide you through the process. Let’s make this school year a turning point for our youth.
Michele Broadnax is the president and CEO of LA’s BEST.