Rochester Praised for After School Programs

By Carlet Cleare

Rochester, NY – A new national report is featuring Rochester as one of the most advanced cities for developing afterschool programs for youth.
The National League of Cities' released a report, which identifies a growing trend saying networks of human services organizations, schools and municipalities are crucial to kids being successful.
The report says one in four children and youth are either at home - unattended - or hanging out with friends after school.
And in Rochester, more than 17,200 kids have no place to go once school lets out.
Patricia Davis, director of community investment at United Way, says children who lack supervision between the hours of 3 and 7 p-m are more susceptible of getting into trouble.
In the study, Rochester is recognized for its E-Z Rec Pass that tracks students' attendance, participation and contact information.
And a Rochester Afterschool Plan launched by former mayor Bob Duffy and then-superintendent Jean-Claude Brizard, which offers high-quality standards for afterschool programs.

Rochester ranked within the top 27 cities identified by the National League of Cities.
The Wallace Foundation commissioned the report.