After school learning programs can provide an effective approach for improving academic performance among groups underrepresented in higher education. A key to program success and sustainability is partnerships with higher education.
College students can provide needed tutoring and homework assistance.
Early academic outreach initiatives can utilize after school programs as a vehicle for fostering interest in and preparation for higher education. Research and training by institutions of higher education can further support after school initiatives. Summary Changing patterns of labor force participation have made after school programs for elementary and middle school students essential for more and more families. After school learning provides an effective approach for advancing student academic performance and achieving positive developmental outcomes among groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education. For many children at risk of academic failure, after school programs provide places where instruction received during the regular school day can be supplemented or reinforced.