L.A. Unified Board of Education Unanimously Approves Board Member Nick Melvoin’s Resolution to Expand High Quality Before and Afterschool Programming (11-14-23)
LOS ANGELES, CA – November 14, 2023 – The L.A. Unified Board of Education voted today to approve Board Member Nick Melvoin’s resolution calling on the District to study, fund, and advocate for expanded access to high quality before and afterschool programming.
The resolution, co-sponsored by Board President Jackie Goldberg, Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson and Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin, highlights the value of these programs as a vital supplement to a well-rounded education. It calls for an analysis of new and ongoing strategies to strengthen the coherence, quality, and accessibility of before and afterschool programs.
“Every student should have equitable access to vital before and afterschool programming, which inspires learning and supports families by giving working parents and guardians peace of mind,” said Melvoin. “By bridging the gap between school and home, afterschool programs extend the academic support students receive during the day, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes, social-emotional skills, and more enriched lives.”
“My wife and I founded an afterschool program, LACER, in 1995 and there are other wonderful providers that serve Los Angeles Unified,” said Board President Jackie Goldberg. “I have seen firsthand the life-changing impacts of these programs, such as dance, music, sports, theater, mentorship and tutoring. Afterschool programs are an essential part of the education we give our students so I’m proud that we are ensuring that these programs serve the students who need it most.”
“Afterschool programs are crucial to our communities, as they provide safe and welcoming environments,” said Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson. “They not only provide academic and social nourishment for students but provide peace of mind for parents when their children attend. These programs should be expanded so more students can utilize them.”
“Before and afterschool programs provide important enrichment opportunities for students in many areas such as education, sports, music, and hobbies,” said Board Member Dr. George J. McKenna III. “Like education overall, there is a need for increased funding and we are committed to continued advocacy.”
"As a product of Los Angeles Unified schools, a single mom, and a Los Angeles Unified parent, I have leaned on extracurricular school support, including before and after school activities as well as summer and winter programs," Board Member Dr. Rocío Rivas said. "Elevating our before and afterschool programming will serve our students and help working families thrive, knowing their children are well cared for away from home.”
“Our commitment to student learning and support isn’t confined to the school day, and we are dedicated to providing high-quality programs before and after school,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez. “The forthcoming update will inform how we can further invest in and improve our programs in service of our students and families.”
“Beyond our deep appreciation for before and afterschool programming, partners and opportunities, today’s resolution will lead to an analysis of current availability, use and outcomes of before and afterschool programs which will help us better understand and respond to the needs of our students,” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin. “I’m looking forward to improving our services locally and collectively advocating for more support with our government and philanthropic partners.”
Nick Melvoin is proud to serve the dynamic communities of District 4 as Vice President of the LA Unified Board of Education. Nick’s election to the Board in May of 2017 follows a career fighting for our city’s schoolchildren as a teacher, attorney, and community advocate. He believes that together, with the right leadership, we can ensure that every student in Los Angeles has the opportunity to succeed. Board District 4 includes the communities of Brentwood, Del Rey, Encino, Hancock Park, Hollywood, Mar Vista, Marina Del Rey, Pacific Palisades, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista, Reseda, Tarzana, Topanga, Westchester, West Hollywood, Westwood, Woodland Hills, and Venice.
###
If you would like more information about this topic, please call Ally Salvaria at 818-726-6151 or email at Ally.Salvaria@LAUSD.net.
