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After‑school program reports big participation gains; coordinator to present Tucker County model in Washington
Summary
The county’s 21st Century after‑school program reported average daily attendance of 85.98 (about 86 children), a roughly 39.7% increase from last year, and staff said the program provides meals, academic supports and cultural themes. The presenter will speak on the Tucker County model at an After School Alliance event on Capitol Hill in mid‑March.
Presenter, the district’s after‑school program coordinator, updated the Tucker County Board of Education on the 21st Century after‑school program and reported a substantial rise in student participation.
"Our ADA is 85.98 this year," the Presenter said. "So almost 86 kids were averaging a night." She told trustees that about 20% of district students are eligible for and have participated in the program and that nearly half the district’s students have registered at some point this year. She added that last year’s ADA was 61.57, an increase this year of 39.7 percent.
The Presenter described program operations and supports: a weekly country‑themed curriculum for K–8 students, STEAM and cultural activities, regular involvement with the Family Resource Network and a meal model that currently provides a supper and a snack so participants receive two meals during attendance. The Presenter said the program integrates reading supports including Accelerated Reader and online quizzes, and uses iReady for remediation work.
She credited the program’s improved participation to changes in scheduling, additional staffing and transportation. "Getting the bus driver at Davis Thomas really was a benefit there," the Presenter said, noting the prior year lacked a bus driver for pickups. She also said staff shortened session lengths and increased the number of teachers to better engage students.
The Presenter said the program’s success prompted the After School Alliance of West Virginia to invite her to speak about the Tucker County model on Capitol Hill. "I'll be going there in the middle of March to speak about our program," she said, adding the visit will include meetings with members of Congress to discuss program impacts and needs.
Why it matters: Board members and staff framed the program as both an academic and community benefit — raising attendance and offering academic supports while giving parents more opportunities to engage with school events. The Presenter said staff will continue refining session structure and outreach to keep expanding participation.
What’s next: The Presenter said the program is already planning next year’s theme and will coordinate with the Family Resource Network and school principals to host board meetings at different schools to increase family attendance for student recognitions and events.
