The Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education approved a resolution on Nov. 14 by Board Member Nick Melvoin calling on the district to study, fund and advocate for expanded access to high quality before- and after-school programming.

The resolution, co-sponsored by Board president Jackie Goldberg, vice president Scott M. Schmerelson and member Tanya Ortiz Franklin, highlights the value of the programs as a vital supplement to education. The resolution calls for an analysis of new and ongoing strategies to strengthen the coherence, quality and accessibility of before and after-school programs.

“Every student should have equitable access to vital before and after-school programming, which inspires learning and supports families by giving working parents and guardians peace of mind,” Melvoin said. “By bridging the gap between school and home, after-school programs extend the academic support students receive during the day, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes, social-emotional skills and more enriched lives.”

“My wife and I founded an afterschool program LACER in 1995 and there are other wonderful providers that serve Los Angeles Unified,” Goldberg said. “I have seen firsthand the life-changing impacts of these programs, such as dance, music, sports, theater, mentorship and tutoring. After-school programs are an essential part of the education we give our students, so I’m proud that we are ensuring that these programs serve the students who need it most.”

“Beyond our deep appreciation for before and after-school programming, partners and opportunities, [this] resolution will lead to an analysis of current availability, use and outcomes of before and after-school programs which will help us better understand and respond to the needs of our students,” Ortiz Franklin added. “I’m looking forward to improving our services locally and collectively advocating for more support with our government and philanthropic partners.”

For information, visit lausd.net and boardmembermelvoin.com.