A Rural Maine School District Fights to Keep Its After-School Program Afloat Amid Funding Uncertainty
In a rural Maine community, vibrant after-school activities are threatened by potential funding cuts. The REACH Afterschool Program in the MSAD 54 district, which includes schools around Skowhegan, faces an uncertain future as federal funding hangs in the balance.
After-School Cooking Club Offers Enrichment and Engagement
At the heart of the program is an after-school cooking club where middle schoolers like Connor Atkinson and Genevieve Plante craft yogurt parfaits, learning about French cuisine and presentation. “We’re making it like the French flag, so red for strawberry, white for yogurt, and then blue for blueberry,” says sixth-grader Blaine Hart. This is all part of the club’s preparation for an international food festival.
The club is just one of many enriching activities provided by the REACH program, which is funded by the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) grant. Students in this low-income area participate in activities like outdoor adventures, sewing, chess, robotics, and theater, offering opportunities otherwise inaccessible due to financial constraints.
Potential Federal Budget Cuts Threaten Program’s Future
Concerns about the program’s future arise from President Trump’s budget proposal, which suggests consolidating and cutting several federal education grants. Although the CCLC grant isn’t specifically mentioned, advocates worry it might be targeted. The U.S. Department of Education hasn’t clarified which grants are at risk, but Secretary of Education Linda McMahon has stated the budget aims to “reorient taxpayer dollars toward proven programs that generate results for American students.”
Director Dawn Fickett emphasizes the importance of the REACH program, noting its positive impact on student engagement and keeping them out of trouble. “Having a place for our youth to go to be engaged, sparking joy and learning, is a great way to keep kiddos off our streets and out of trouble,” she says.
Proven Benefits of After-School Programs
Hedy Chang from Attendance Works highlights the benefits of after-school programs, such as improved student attendance and access to resources like nutrition. “After-school programs can connect kids to needed resources like food, nutrition,” she explains.
In Maine, other federal funding threats also loom, potentially affecting mental health services in schools. Low-income and rural districts like MSAD 54 are especially vulnerable to these cuts.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Brenda Madden, who leads the cooking club, introduces students to diverse cuisines and skills, fostering creativity. Seventh-grader Dylan Kirk, for example, explores new flavor combinations and learns about nutrition. “Magic happens in the kitchen,” Madden says, emphasizing the program’s ability to demystify culinary arts.
Fickett notes the academic benefits of the program, with a significant increase in homework completion and literacy improvement among younger students. Collaborative efforts with school-day teachers enhance the program’s effectiveness.
Supporting Families and Building Community
For families like the Kirks, the program is essential. Cynthia Kirk, Dylan’s mother, appreciates the hands-on learning opportunities it provides. However, she worries about potential cuts: “When it comes to the kids, this should be last on the list of things to be cut. So many kids need these programs.”
Fickett is already seeking support from local businesses and donors to sustain the program. “In this district, we don’t look at school and after-school as separate … we are a vital part of a child’s school day,” she asserts.
