After School Task Force Seeks Mentors

DAYTON—For many months, a task force of committed parents and community members has been working to develop an after school program for children in the Dayton School District.

The goal for creating an after school program is to provide academic support and promote social, emotional, and physical development through collaborative community development

At a Strategic Planning Workshop in October, task force members gained clarity about how to proceed with developing a viable program.

Some key strategic objectives for moving the process forward are: Identifying the target population, developing a community collaborative, designing a program that carries out the vision, gaining financial clarity, and creating an operational plan with student-focused content that empowers family participation.

At their meeting on December 1, the After School Task Force identified several objectives for the next few months.

A survey of students will be made to assess their willingness and ability to participate in a program and assess their interest in topics and activities. Funding will be looked at more closely. And a resource list of community members who are willing to share their time, talents, and expertise with students will be compiled.

This resource list will be a valuable tool as the Task Force moves forward with developing activities and unique educational opportunities for children in the community.

If you have a special skill that you are willing to share, please contact the Coalition for Youth and Families at 382-1511 or email Peggy Gutierrez at pgutierrez@columbianet.com.