SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Alabama parents are calling for more affordable afterschool and summer programs, stronger academic support and greater access to science and technology activities as state officials examine how learning opportunities outside the classroom can better serve children.
The Joint Interim Study Commission on Expanding Access to High-Quality Out-of-School Education Programs reviewed responses from 672 Alabamians during a recent meeting. The commission was created during the 2025 legislative session and is responsible for developing comprehensive recommendations for the state.
The Alabama Commission on the Evaluation of Services conducted the survey from July 14 through September 11. Respondents included 393 parents or guardians, 233 teachers, program instructors and other stakeholders, and 46 young participants.
Most respondents expressed satisfaction with available programs. About 70.7% of parents and 63.2% of stakeholders said they were very satisfied. Nevertheless, the survey identified barriers that can prevent families from finding programs that are affordable, accessible and aligned with their children’s needs.
More than 30% of parents recommended improvements in affordability, STEM programming and academic support. Parents also reported needing care during school holidays, teacher workdays and spring break, as well as before the regular school day begins.
Transportation emerged as another concern. Approximately 32.6% of stakeholders identified transportation as a major barrier, compared with 10.2% of parents.
Parents and education professionals also differed in the activities they considered most important. About 65% of parents ranked physical activity among their leading priorities, while roughly 47% selected reading. Among stakeholders, 71.2% identified reading as a priority, while 44.2% selected physical education.
Young respondents said the programs helped them develop practical abilities. More than 67% reported gaining problem-solving skills, while more than 58% said they strengthened teamwork and communication.
Commission members are also considering how afterschool and summer programs could introduce students to apprenticeships and future careers. Member Meredith C. Smith said Alabama is among 10 states partnering with Apprenticeships for America. The state’s participation includes workforce pathways connected to submarine construction.
Smith cited a 2023 report estimating that approximately 90,000 Alabamians between 18 and 24 were neither employed nor enrolled in school.
“I think afterschool and summer learning—that is a prime opportunity for us to be doing more awareness and exploration activities about careers,” Smith said.
The findings carry particular importance for working parents, rural communities and families unable to afford private camps or academic enrichment. A program cannot benefit a child if transportation is unavailable, tuition is unaffordable or its operating hours do not match a parent’s work schedule.