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Lights On Afterschool
Every October, thousands of communities across the country celebrate Lights On Afterschool, a call for attention to the importance of afterschool programs and the resources to keep the lights and doors open for America’s children, families and communities organized by Afterschool Alliance. Sitar Arts Center is honored to participate in Lights On Afterschool.
In America today, 11.3 million children are alone and unsupervised after school. Afterschool programs keep kids safe, help working families and inspire learning. They also provide opportunities to help young people develop into successful adults.
Every day, Sitar Arts Center meets the needs of hundreds of children and teens in the District of Columbia. Not only by offering high-quality arts programs, but also by providing a safe environment during the vulnerable after school hours.
RESEARCH
Research studies show that students who regularly participate in quality afterschool programs are more likely to make better decisions, improve work habits and grades, and have higher graduation rates …
… as well as develop strong social skills, be excited about learning, and make gains in reading and math.
EVALUATION
Sitar Arts Center’s most recent evaluation report on such 21st century learning skills backs up these studies and found that 83% of Sitar students demonstrated collaboration, 84% communication skills, 75% initiative and accountability, and 85% creative and critical thinking. See details about Sitar Arts Center’s impact findings here.
Eighty percent of Sitar’s students come from low-income families. Studies show that high-quality afterschool programs like Sitar’s help close the achievement gap between students from lower- and higher-income families.
High-quality afterschool programs throughout the District of Columbia and across the United States play a vital role in supporting the development of children today and to strengthen their skills to become successful adults tomorrow. Sitar Arts Center is proud to play a role in doing that for our young people.
Tags: afterschool programs, lights on afterschool