Major Gaps In Resources for Out-of-School Learning, Finds United Way Report

Major Gaps In Resources for Out-of-School Learning, Finds United Way Report

The United Way of Rhode Island has released its 2019 Out-of-School Time Learning Report.

The report shows that for the 34,704 Rhode Island students engaged in afterschool learning, there are another 37,471 who would participate in a program if one were available to them.

“Afterschool alone can’t improve low test scores, but the results they do have in our core cities – more students staying in school, graduating and pursuing college, social and emotional development – are clearly evident. These programs are a vital component to helping our youth do their best, and we must do what’s needed to make them available to every child,” said Larry Warner, Director of Grants and Strategic Initiatives, UWRI.

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United Way’s report comes two days after the scores of the Rhode Island Comprehensive Assessment System (RICAS)  tests were released.

Read the Report Here

"Out of School Time (OST) learning matters. When youth participate in high-quality OST programs, they are safe, and they are more likely to succeed in school and careers. Rhode Island parents support high-quality OST programs. 71 percent of Rhode Island parents support public funding for afterschool programs. Rhode Island’s OST programs are aligned to the state’s educational goals. When young people regularly attend OST programs, they improve in math and other academic outcomes, decrease behavioral problems, and attend school more regularly. OST programs ensure that youth are prepared for the workforce and have the social and emotional skills necessary to navigate their lives," states the report.

United Way’s Report

The report shows that despite the benefits of the programs and demand among families and youth, it is a lack of funding that minimizes access and reach.

According to the report, in 2018, Rhode Island schools and community-based organizations requested $7.3 million to help fund OST programs; only $2.7 million of which was able to be funded, leaving tens of thousands of students without a program opportunity.

For the hundreds of students who participated in programs offered by College Visions, New Urban Arts, Riverzedge Arts, and Young Voices, more than 96 percent completed high school.

“The data shows, that not only do these programs work, but kids and families really need them. There is great work being done, but in order to take that next step, we need to appoint a state director of OST programming and create a dedicated funding stream for these programs like our neighboring states have done,” said Angela Bannerman-Ankoma, EVP, Director of Community Investment, UWRI.