“Love Terrific Kids” students at Love Elementary School show off their craft to celebrate “Lights on Afterschool” on Oct. 23. Afterschool program sites across Jamestown Public Schools celebrated the importance of safe, engaging spaces for students beyond the school day as part of the nationwide celebration organized by the Afterschool Alliance.

Afterschool program sites across Jamestown Public Schools celebrated the importance of safe, engaging spaces for students beyond the school day as part of the nationwide “Lights on Afterschool” celebration on Oct. 23.

“‘Lights On Afterschool’ is a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on the work that happens every afternoon in our programs,” said Heather Meyer, JPS 21st Century Program Director. “It’s not just homework help — it’s enrichment, relationship building, and a continuation of the caring environment our schools provide.”

Organized by the Afterschool Alliance, “Lights on Afterschool” looks to spotlight the importance of these programs, which aim to keep kids safe, help working families, and inspire learning. To mark the day, special events took place at several afterschool program sites at JPS elementary and middle schools including Bush School, whose program helped organize a “Trunk or Treat” event for students and families, Fletcher School, whose program held an open house for enrolled families, and Ring School, whose program participated in the school’s “Fall Fest.” Students at all sites colored and created “light bulbs” to demonstrate what they love the best about the afterschool program.

Jamestown Public Schools currently supports afterschool programs at each elementary school in partnership with the Jamestown Area YMCA and the Jamestown YWCA. Middle school programs are supported by the district through the New York State 21st Century Community Learning Centers. Additional support is provided by the Jamestown Community Learning Council, Chautauqua Striders, and other community partners.

“We are grateful for our partner agencies who help to create these safe spaces for our JPS students,” added Meyer. “Their support allows us to offer meaningful experiences after school — places where students can learn, connect with friends, and continue growing long after the school day ends.”

Program participation is free for JPS students. For more information on the afterschool program available at our elementary and middle schools, visit jpsny.org/afterschool or contact the main office of your child’s school.