NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released the following statement on the Commission on Universal After-School’s interim report producing strategic recommendations to address issues facing the after-school ecosystem:
“When we set out to achieve “After-School for All,” we knew it would take a broad coalition to get it done — and to get it done right. By bringing together leaders from community-based providers, advocacy groups, philanthropy and the business sector, the city set out to build a long-term, sustainable strategy for a universal after-school system that gives nonprofits the support they need to hire staff, strengthen training, and deliver high-quality programs.
“I want to thank the commission for its work so far, and for the key findings that will guide this next phase. By confirming the significant unmet demand for K–5 programs, we can clearly identify the resources to support future expansion. The report underscores the importance of investing in the nonprofit workforce that powers high-quality programs, and the need to strengthen system coordination so that partnerships and collaboration are consistent across the city. Today’s findings also highlight the need to balance oversight with flexibility to maintain program quality, and the importance of ensuring high-need students can fully access and benefit from after-school opportunities.
“These efforts are essential to ensuring every child has a safe, supportive place to learn and grow, and to building a stronger, more sustainable system for the future. It is critical that we continue the commission’s work and stay focused on expanding and improving after-school programs. We cannot and will not rest on our laurels because New York City’s working-class families need us now.”
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