Senators Collins, Franken Praise Unanimous Senate Passage of Resolution Celebrating Afterschool Programs

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Al Franken (D-MN) praised the unanimous Senate passage of their resolution last night recognizing Lights on Afterschool, a celebration of afterschool programs nationwide. 

“Afterschool programs provide an enriching environment for students once the school day has ended,” said Senator Susan Collins. “By engaging young people in academic and physical activities, these programs enhance students’ education and help promote healthy habits. In addition, afterschool programs provide parents with peace of mind knowing that their children are in a safe and structured setting.”

"As co-chair of the bipartisan Senate Afterschool Caucus, I know that afterschool activities help kids develop into well-rounded students.” said Senator Al Franken. “Afterschool programs keep Minnesotan kids safe and engaged in activities before their parents and guardians come home from work. I’m glad to help introduce a bipartisan resolution celebrating Minnesota’s afterschool programs and will work hard to make sure that more kids have the opportunity to participate.”

More than one million people participated in more than 9,000 Lights On Afterschool events across the nation.

For the past 18 years, these events have fostered awareness of afterschool programs among the public and elected officials, and demonstrate the value of such programs by allowing participants to showcase the skills they have learned and talents they have developed.

As a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, Senator Collins is a strong advocate for afterschool programs. With her support, an amendment reauthorizing the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program was successfully included in the Every Student Succeeds Act, which was signed into law by President Obama on December 10, 2015.