Dear Washington Afterschool Network member,

Last week President Obama announced his proposed budget for fiscal year 2011. Within the budget are two changes that will set back afterschool programs.

Take action and urge President Obama to protect funding for afterschool.

The proposed budget shifts $13 million away from 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) funding. Additionally, the budget includes policy recommendations regarding the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). These policy recommendations could change how 21st CCLC funds are distributed. The change would expand the number of programs eligible for this funding, without expanding the amount of funding available.

According to the Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant:

"This is more than a funding freeze; it is a setback. The President's proposal to divert funds from afterschool programs by putting them in competition with community schools for grants will effectively cut the funding available for the afterschool programs that children and families across the nation rely upon."

Take action today with School’s Out Washington’s national partner, the Afterschool Alliance.

Urge the President and Secretary to strengthen and expand quality afterschool programs instead of diverting much needed funding away from already under-resourced afterschool programs.

Sincerely,

Janet Frieling
Network Director, School's Out Washington
801 23rd Ave. S, Suite A
Seattle, WA 98144
206-323-2396 or 1-888-419-9300