NH Afterschool Network Awarded Grant from National Conference of State Legislatures

The New Hampshire Afterschool Network, in collaborations with the NH Department of Education and Plymouth State University, was awarded a data grant from the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) to expand its research on 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) program outcomes. 21st CCLC is a federally funded, state managed program through the Department of Education that provides academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children, particularly students who attend high-poverty schools. For more information, visit 21st Century Community Learning Centers in NH. (link no longer active.)

Researchers from Plymouth State University will examine the impact of 21st CCLC to include: grade promotion, school day attendance, and performance on standardized assessments. Researchers will also take a closer look at the influence of afterschool programs on the attainment of 21st century skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and adaptability. These skills are arguably the most important in developing tomorrow’s skilled workforce.

“We are incredibly proud to have been awarded this grant,” says Lynn Stanley, Lead for the NH Afterschool Network. “There is a growing body of research showing the positive effects high-quality afterschool programs have on students, families, schools, and communities. This collaborative effort will significantly contribute to the field and we look forward to sharing this information with state and local policy makers.”

“Through the NCSL grant we intend to establish a model of data analysis, providing a framework for expanding evaluation beyond 21st CCLC programs to include non-21st CCLC programs.” States NH DOE Commissioner Virginia Barry. “ This impact data may be built upon by other states as well.”

Dr. Hilary Swank, Assistant Professor at Plymouth State University reports, “This is an excellent opportunity for Plymouth State University to continue its mission of service to the state and region through institutional partnerships. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with NHAN and the NH DOE in a relatively new area of study with such potential significance.”

This data grant is made possible with support from the C.S. Mott Foundation. The National Conference of State Legislatures will provide technical assistance for this grant project for the period of July 2015-February 2016.

The National Conference of State Legislatures’ mission is to improve the quality of state legislatures, promote policy innovation and communication among state legislatures, and ensure state legislatures a strong, cohesive voice in the federal system.

The New Hampshire Afterschool Network is a statewide collaboration created to foster and encourage the development and sustainability of high-quality afterschool and summer learning programs.

Contact: Lynn Stanley
Phone: (603) 496-0994
www.nhafterschool.org