For the first time, Alaska breached the top ten nationwide, in the America After 3pm survey, coming in at 4th! The America After 3pm survey ranks afterschool programs across the nation using indicators like afterschool program participation, programs reaching children in need, and parent’s satisfaction with key features of their child’s afterschool care. This 4th place ranking marks a huge jump from 46th in 2009 and shows steady progress from a ranking of 31st in 2014.
In addition to ranking 4th, Alaska also excelled in areas like variety of programming, 97% of parents are satisfied with their child’s afterschool program, and Alaska ranked 1st in the nation for parental satisfaction for variety of activities offered. Alaska’s children are building life skills, doing physical activities, building social skills, and engaging in STEM and computer science opportunities in high numbers at afterschool programs across the state.
“While Alaska excelled in many areas, there is still room for growth,” said Thomas Azzarella, Director of the Alaska Afterschool Network. “For every child in an afterschool program there are three waiting for a spot. Barriers to programs include cost and space availability We are determined to continue the progress to make afterschool programs available to all children and youth here in Alaska.”
Join Senator Lisa Murkowski in the video below as she celebrates Alaska’s outstanding new ranking of 4th in the nation for afterschool. She unpacks the results of the America After 3pm survey and what they mean for Alaska. Senator Murkowski is a strong advocate for afterschool, and she notes the importance of afterschool programming in children’s lives.
“Seen firsthand the many ways that these programs support children and families. The way that kids’ faces light up each
afternoon when they get to go to their afterschool program…where learning is fun, caring adults are all around, and
skilled tutors and mentors help them overcome whatever hurdles they face.” - Senator Lisa Murkowski
Thank you for recognizing and taking part in the outstanding achievement of afterschool providers statewide, Senator Murkowski!
