City of St. George awarded grant to help expand after-school programs by 300 percent

The Leisure Services Department of the City of St. George was recently awarded a three-year grant to assist in the expansion of the after-school program it operates in conjunction with Washington County School District. The AMP Grant, funded through the Department of Workforce Service’s Office of Childcare, allows for 12 hours per week of active programming at three WCSD elementary schools: Heritage, Sandstone and Sunset.

From August 2015 to May 2019, only one elementary school, Coral Cliffs Elementary, was involved in the after-school program.

“We love that this program provides tutoring, expands learning opportunities and fosters positive social interaction within a safe environment — in addition to helping ease the financial burden many parents face,” said Dawn Eide-Albrecht, Recreation Supervisor for the City of St. George. “We have the potential to host 120 children at each of the three locations, which is really exciting.”

The capacity of the program depends on the amount of personnel available to staff the program. The City is hiring for several positions. To apply, go to careers.sgcity.org/position/2718.

Eide-Albrecht notes that on average families spend approximately $100 per child per week on after-school care. This program is significantly less expensive, with a sliding fee scale of between $25 and $0 (depending on the family’s financial situation) that covers 12 hours of programming for a 16-week session.

The program is open to students who attend any of those three elementary schools. There are two sessions: Aug. 28-Dec. 20 and Jan. 15-May 7. Registration forms can be filled out at the three schools.

The program is based around three main components: education and career readiness, physical activity and nutrition, and positive interpersonal relationships. During a typical day, students will receive tutoring assistance, be engaged in hands-on activities and learn the importance of positive social interaction.

At each location the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah will offer to match mentors with each child. Other supporters of the after-school program include Rocky Vista University and the St. George Police Department.

“After-school programs provide students with the opportunity to enhance learning, improve academic progress and expand their interests in a safe environment,” said WCSD Superintendent Larry Bergeson. “We thank the City of St. George and each participating entity for their commitment to our children.”

More information

www.sgcity.org/sportsandrecreation/allartsandrecreation/afterschoolprograms

www.washk12.org