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Council refers out‑of‑school‑time study to Human Services committee; recommends focus on space, pay and special‑needs inclusion
Summary
The council referred a detailed Cambridge Out‑of‑School Time (OST) study to the Human Services and Veterans Committee. The study recommends improved space access, higher pay and benefits for OST staff, unified application/enrollment, and enhanced inclusion supports for children with special needs.
The Cambridge City Council referred an expansive study of out‑of‑school time (OST) programs to the Human Services and Veterans Committee for further action and oversight.
Assistant City Manager Elizabeth Semenoff summarized five principal recommendations: (1) secure and better coordinate program space in city schools and facilities; (2) improve pay, benefits and recruitment for OST staff; (3) increase inclusion supports and staff trained to serve children with special needs; (4) simplify and unify the application and enrollment process across city and nonprofit providers; and (5) deepen partnerships between school‑day staff and after‑school providers.
Councilors and public commentators emphasized the staffing and inclusion challenges. The city has budgeted funding for an additional inclusion support specialist and a set of scholarships (91 vouchers referenced) to serve children with special needs. Semenoff said the city will add one classroom at the Tobin school this year and use funding to pilot early‑entry assessments and trial placements for children who need intensive support.
Councilors agreed to refer the study to the Human Services committee for a detailed fall review; the referral was approved by voice vote and recorded as referred to committee. Councilors said they will examine pay/benefits and scheduling as part of upcoming budget and staffing discussions.
