Manchester administrators told the School Committee that the U.S. Department of Education has determined that nominal fees charged for the 21st Century after‑school program are not allowable when the program primarily serves low‑income students. As a result, Manchester will transition to a free model for the 21st Century program and seek alternative funding sources for supplemental costs such as snacks and enrichment materials.

Assistant Superintendent Nicole Daugherty said the program historically charged modest fees ranging from about $0.75 to $2.75 per day, adjusted by family lunch status; scholarships were available for families in need. The U.S. Department of Education informed the district that program fees are not necessary to meet program goals when the program is targeted to low‑income students. “The US Department of Ed said it was not acceptable [to charge those fees],” Daugherty said.

Administration said federal grant funding for the 21st Century program itself was not reduced and that the district still anticipates its full awards; instead, the change affects supplemental fees used for snacks and extra enrichment items. Alex Vek, who runs the program, said the program saw more than 1,000 students sign up for summer programming with over 900 students participating at least one day. Administrators said they will pursue alternative funding, including Title IV and other sources, to replace fee revenue and pay for snacks (noting federal restrictions on using Title funds for food), and will collaborate with statewide 21st Century directors for options.

Why it matters: Transitioning to a free model will increase access for families but requires additional funding to replace small fee revenue and to cover snacks and enrichment that families previously helped underwrite.

Background and next steps: Administrators said they will seek alternative funding sources and report budgets to the finance committee; they expect enrollment pressure may increase with a free model and will plan capacity accordingly.