Brief Description: Providing for a study of after-school programs.

Sponsors: Representatives McDermott, Haigh and Schual-Berke.

Hearing Date: 1/26/04

Staff: Susan Morrissey (786-7111).

Background:

According to reports jointly produced by the United States Departments of Justice and Education, high-quality after-school programs can help students stay in school, achieve academically, and obey the laws. The agencies found that these after-school programs:

•    Decrease juvenile crime, vandalism in schools, and negative influences that lead to drug, alcohol and tobacco use.

•    Strengthen student achievement.

•    Improve school attendance and graduation rates.

•    Improve homework completion rates.

•    Reduce the percentage of students held back a grade or placed in special education programs.

•    Increase student aspirations, including high school graduation and college attendance goals.

•    Improve school behavior.

The reports also identified some of the common characteristics of high-quality after-school programs designed to meet the needs of a diverse population of school-age children and suggested some of the types of community partnerships that have led to program success.

Summary of Bill:

The legislature finds that leaving children unsupervised after school can lead to a number of undesirable outcomes. The legislature also finds that good after-school programs can provide safe and effective learning environments for school-age children who would otherwise be left alone after school. The programs can also improve student behavior and achievement and can help children develop effective relationships and conflict resolution skills. The legislature intends to direct two state agencies to work with the Washington After-School Network to develop a statewide vision and strategic plan designed to ensure that quality after-school programs are available to every school-aged child in the state.

The Superintendent of Public Instruction and the Department of Social and Health Services will work with the Washington After-School Network to gather information and complete the following responsibilities by October 31, 2004:

•    Assess the state of after-school programs available in the state.

•    Identify the funding sources available for program support.

•    Study model after-school programs operating in the state and identify the components that lead to the success of those programs.

•    Develop a statewide vision and strategic plan to ensure the availability of after-school programs for every school-aged child or youth in the state.

•    Report to the Governor and various legislative committees with any findings and recommendations.

The two agencies may provide funding to the Washington After-School Network to gather the information and accomplish the responsibilities required by October 31, 2004.

An emergency clause is attached.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.