Many of these children arrive home from school to an empty house and spend several hours a day without parental supervision because parents have few options for after-school care. Most communities do not provide enough after-school programs, and only 30 percent of schools have extended learning options. This situation worsens as children leave elementary schools. Quality school-age programming must provide a range of options and activities to engage kindergartners and high school students alike. Programs face the problem of finding facilities that are available before and after school, as well as during the summer months and school vacations.
Schools provide an ideal setting, but school districts are often reluctant to get involved.
The Beacons Initiative was created in New York City by the Mayor's Office. Program sites stay open a minimum of 42 hours a week, with most sites operating daily from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sites must also be open at least one weekend day during school holidays and summer vacations. The New York City Department of Education provides funds to pay for the use of school buildings. Additional funding for these programs is provided by foundations and local businesses. The MOST Initiative.