What We Know

Afterschool programs can support social, emotional, cognitive, and academic development, reduce risky behaviors, promote physical health, and provide a safe and supportive environment for children and youth. For example, Horizons National, an intensive 6-week summer learning and enrichment program, runs small classes led by professional educators across 71 districts in 20 states. Horizons programs, locally owned and operated in all locations, include a rich culturally inclusive and responsive curriculum emphasizing literacy and STEM and incorporate social-emotional and whole-child teaching practices Further, they maintain connection with students and families throughout the year by offering Saturday programming, special events, and community reunions. A study on their impact has shown that Horizons students show consistent gains of 6-12 weeks grade equivalence in reading and math over each 6-week summer session, have higher attendance rates, lower rates of chronic absenteeism, higher scores on standardized assessments of elementary math and science, and fewer disciplinary referrals as compared to their peers not in Horizons programs

What We Heard

During multiple EmpowerED Birmingham retreats, community leaders credited small, minority-led service organizations as the cornerstone of academic support for many Birmingham families. Often overlooked and underfunded, coalition members indicated a sincere desire for minority-led community based organizations to have stronger connections with school districts to align their efforts to serve students better. Conversations with community members gathered by design teams backed up their concerns. Minority-led nonprofit organizations secure nearly four times less funding of white-led organizations of similar sizes. Data from student surveys showed the grave importance of these kinds of support. Fifty percent (50%) of students surveyed said they don’t have an adult outside of their family who believes in them and their dreams.

Given the fact that roughly 70 million dollars of American Rescue Plan funds are currently available to support community-based organizations working in Birmingham, it’s all the more critical that culturally-affirming community organizations are given a seat at the table and valued for their role in supporting and mentoring students.