As late as the 18th century, the exploitation of children as miners in Wales led John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, to establish schools to provide all children with a basic elementary education. Wesley's enthusiasm for education of all children calls us to support quality education for all. This means make connections with public schools by getting to our administrators and teachers, and volunteering to assist the children and youths of our church and community. One of the best ways congregations can assist public education is through quality after-school programs. Such programs provide a safe, supervised space where children and youths can get their daily school work done.
Volunteers can help with difficult studies through tutoring.
A congregational after-school care program also provides students with a more secure environment where they are less susceptible to drugs and crime. This alternative counters the effect of unsupervised after-school hours, when research shows that juvenile crime hits its peak. Such programs also provide an opportunity for host congregations to be in close contact with the families they serve and to provide a church home for their spiritual care. There are risks to after-school programs. They're a lot of work to organize and maintain every school day.