And summer programs, the obvious next step in needy neighborhoods, are even more complex and expensive. Nearly all the programs contain a homework or tutoring component, but the other hours are filled with recreation, adventure, or artistic activities. The federal government provides a free snack. One major issue is who should staff the programs. Some places, like Chicago, use only teachers or retired teachers, but most say that is unrealistic because of burnout, or simply too costly.
Turnover is brisk.
Good adult supervision requires a lot of generosity. That's not always intuitive. We have to build what that means among staff. At P.S. 130 in the Bronx, Rosetta Price is a cafeteria worker by day, a counselor in the after-school program. Parents are often in the classroom as well, either as volunteer helpers or as paid counselors.