Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam proclaims October 18th Lights On Afterschool Day

Nashville, TN – These days communities need every tool to prepare children for the future. Lights On Afterschool Day recognizes one tool that enhances learning and keeps children safe and less likely to engage in risky behavior – afterschool programs.

Governor Bill Haslam has named October 18th as Lights On Afterschool Day in Tennessee. The proclamation, which was requested by the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth (TCCY), marks the 13th annual national Lights On Afterschool Day.Tennesseans from Bristol and Elizabethton to Memphis and Millington, including programs in Chattanooga, Knoxville and Nashville, will participate in the national event organized by the Afterschool Alliance. Events include open houses, student art projects and performances, and festivals

In his proclamation, the governor said afterschool programs “build stronger communities by involving our students, parents, business leaders and adult volunteers in the lives of our young people, thereby promoting positive relationships among children, youth, families and adults.”

Nearly 30 percent of Tennessee school-age students are responsible for taking care of themselves after school. While fewer than one of every of every eight Tennessee students participates in an afterschool program, many more would likely participate if a program were available. More information about afterschool in Tennessee is available at http://www.afterschoolalliance.org/policyStateFacts.cfm?state_abbr=TN .

Some programs will be asking parents and others to sign petitions supporting continued funding for afterschool programs to assure their ongoing success in improving student performance, attendance, social skills, emotional control and engagement with school.

Tennesseans may find information about local Lights On Afterschool events online at http://www.afterschoolalliance.org/loaFindEventState.cfm?state=TN (List included with this mailing) or contact TCCY.

The Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth is an independent state agency created by the Tennessee General Assembly. Its primary mission is to advocate for improvements in the quality of life for Tennessee children and families.

For more information, contact Linda O’Neal at 615.741.2633.