19 Oct 2009
Event to Highlight Importance of Afterschool Programs
DALLAS–Students from five Dallas ISD schools, G. W. Carver, Lorenzo DeZavala, Anson Jones, Sidney Lanier and Sequoyah elementary schools and organizations associated with The West Dallas Coalition are planning a Lights On Afterschool! Community Rally on Thursday, October 22, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at George W. Carver Learning Center, 3719 Greenleaf St.
Lights On Afterschool! is a nationally recognized event held to emphasize the importance of keeping the lights of learning on at schools after the normal school day. It's hoped the rally will increase community awareness of the importance and variety of after school programs available for children and their families. Students will demonstrate the valuable talents and social skills they have achieved in afterschool programs, and there will be student performances, art exhibits, face painting, community vendors, antique cars, food and fun.
"This event is a great opportunity to bring the West Dallas community, schools, parents, students, family and friends together to increase their knowledge of the many facets of afterschool enrichment programs," said Kayla Kelley, supervisor for Dallas ISD's Afterschool Enrichment Department. "Students who are actively engaged in afterschool programs reap a number of benefits, such as improved social skills, cultural awareness, health and fitness, exposure to fine arts, and enhanced instruction in reading, mathematics, and science," said Kelley.
Parents and community members are invited to join in this festive event. For more information, call the Afterschool Enrichment Department at (972) 794-3650.
-National Center for Educational Achievement
December 2008