Afterschool Matters: Creative Programs That Connect Youth Development and Student Achievement

"Exemplifies good teaching that might occur anywhere―not just after school. The author presents sound educational endeavors that respond sensitively and inventively to children′s interests, needs, and predilections but extend their knowledge, skills, and understanding into new domains."
―From the Foreword by Glynda A. Hull

"Tackles the issue of the place of afterschool programs in raising student achievement and warns that it is unwise to solely create another layer of school. Afterschool programs also have to have an element of FUN."
―Paul Young, Executive Director
West After School Center, Inc.

Create an out-of-school time program that bridges enrichment activities and academics!

School leaders and afterschool specialists recognize that successful afterschool programs rely on achieving a balance between academic and enrichment activities.

With contributions from researchers and practitioners in the field of out-of-school time, Afterschool Matters provides concrete models that demonstrate how to help youth who are struggling academically and how to support them in their overall development. Editor Sara Hill brings together a range of projects grounded in student interests to enhance multiple student competencies. Embracing the social, artistic, civic, emotional, and intellectual growth of students, this volume:

• Aligns learning standards with youth development principles
• Provides quality program models from experts in the field
• Addresses the challenges and successes in designing and sustaining afterschool activities

Supported by The Robert Bowne Foundation, a leading funder of afterschool programs, this guidebook can help you create, revise, or improve your local program.

Sara Hill, EdD, has worked in community-based education for 20 years. She has conducted research at community-based youth programs, both in the U.S. as well as internationally, and published several articles in the areas of literacy, youth development and community-based education. She received her MEd from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and her EdD from Peabody College, Vanderbilt University.