You asked for a brief summary of state-funded after school programs.

According to the After-School Report published in March 2004 by the State Department of Education (SDE), with contributions from the Department of Social Services, the Commission on Children, and the Connecticut After-School Advisory Committee, the state supports more than 300 after-school programs, many operated by or in conjunction with local school districts. A brief description of each of the major state-funded after-school programs taken from the report is attached.

In addition to the attached list, in the 2005 session, the General Assembly adopted PA 05-245, which allows SDE, in conjunction with the after-school advisory committee and within available appropriations, to provide grants to school districts, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations for programs that take place when school is not in session. The programs must be for educational, enrichment, and recreational activities for children in grades K-12.

Under the act, grant applications must be filed annually as the education commissioner prescribes. The education commissioner may also accept private funds and funds from other state agencies that are members of the after-school committee. The state budget (PA 05-251, § 25 (b)) transfers $ 1 million to SDE to fund these grants.

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