Florida Afterschool Network

Ladies and gentlemen, it is crunch time!

2012-02-26T15:22:00.002-08:00

The conference committee on Senate Bill 1974 and House Bills 5103 and 7119 will soon be appointed and should begin deliberations next week. As of today, we have lost almost 50% of school age children of low income “working families” currently enrolled in the school readiness program. Of the 31,096 school age children currently served through the school readiness program, almost 15,000 (14,898) will lose their eligibility upon their redetermination date. The sole reason is they do not have a sibling under the age of eligibility for kindergarten.

There is precious little time to get this turned around. Below is a one page talking point sheet. Once we know who the conference committee members are, we will notify post information. Please make sure these legislators hear (and hear quickly) from you, whether by e-mail or phone call.

Action Needed! At this time, the Florida Afterschool Network is requesting that you craft your own message utilizing the attachment. It is critical that legislators hear from you directly on this important issue that will negatively impact so many children and families throughout Florida. Just so you are aware, there are a lot of folks working hard to turn this around. Besides myself and Joe Davis, FAN Board members Claudia Davant, Ted Granger, Phyllis Kalifeh, Mike Lannon, and Steve Wilkerson have all been significantly involved. Danny Lyons (also a FAN Board member) Executive Director of the Florida Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs has had Club presidents calling from all over the state. The same goes for Todd Rosenbaum, Executive Director of the Florida YMCA’s. The YMCA directors have been making similar calls. Brittany Birken, President and CEO of the Children’s Services Councils, and their team have been walking the capital since the beginning of session. Additionally, Art O’Hara President of the R’Club in St. Pete (and a FAN Champion), Suzette Harvey, Executive Director of PrimeTime (another FAN Champion) in West Palm Beach, and Ellen McKinley, President of the Kids CDE Alliance, and Roy Miller, and Linda Alexionok of the Children’s Campaign, have all contributed their time and talents to working this issue.

My point in sharing this list of folks is to let you know that we have and will continue to work very hard to retain the eligibility of all school age kids of working families and in order for us to ultimately be successful, we need your personal involvement. Please take a few moments to read the fact sheets and send a message that will help make a difference.

Please contact Joe Davis or me if you have any questions about your approach and message.

Larry Pintacuda

Chief Executive Officer

Florida Afterschool Network

Legislative Fact Sheet

Current Statutory Language in the School Readiness Act, Section 411.0102, provides for school age children ages 5 through 12, of low income working parents to participate in the school readiness program. Both Senate Bill 1974 and House Bill 5103 only provide for “siblings” of children younger than the age for kindergarten enrolled in the school readiness program to participate. Statewide, 15,000 school age children of low income working families will no longer be eligible for services.

Why is quality afterschool important? What does the research tell us?

Attendance in quality afterschool programs has been linked to higher test scores, greater gains in scores, and upward shifts in proficiency levels on standardized test scores.

· The Legislative Office of Program Policy Analysis and Governmental Accountability (OPPAGA) found that elementary and middle school participants in the Boys and Girls Clubs performed better on the FCAT in reading (in elementary school) and math at grade level versus a comparison group of students who were not in quality afterschool programs.

· Florida Tax Watch study of Boys and Girls Clubs: found participating students to have gains on both reading and math standardized test scores.

· University of Florida evaluation of Florida’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers:

found that students participating at a minimum of 12 hours per week consistently have higher math and reading scores on standardized tests.

Former Florida State Health Officer, Dr. Will Blechman states “Childhood and education during childhood are ongoing processes during which the brain continues its development building upon the foundation created during those early years. It makes no sense to focus only on a limited age group, for example, zero to five , then ignore six to ten or vice versa. If the foundation is flawed, that which follows is less likely to be optimally functional. At the same time, even with a good foundation, if following experiences of the child are inadequate or in appropriate for learning, the effect on the brain will also be less than desired.”

Both the Senate and House Bills’ eligibility criteria need to be amended to provide for school age children up through 12 years of age of low income working families to retain their eligibility in the school readiness program.

Recommended language – Add a new subparagraph in the eligibility priorities to read:

Priority shall be given next to a child who is younger than 13 years of age who is eligible for any federal subsidized child care program.

WE ARE MAKING SOME PROGRESS, BUT THERE IS STILL MUCH MORE TO DO!

2012-02-17T11:40:00.003-08:00

We have just been gotten a copy of the Amendment Package HB 7119. In the amendments, the House proposes similar to Senate Bill 1974 to Continue to serve siblings of children ages birth 0-5 enrolled in the school readiness program. If the amendment package passes, we will be in the same posture in both the House and Senate.

We have made some progress getting the siblings reinstated, but we still have much work to do to restore the eligibility of all afterschool kids ages 6 through 12 of low income working families. Below is background on the bill, and FAN’s opinions and recommendations. We ask that you continue to reach out to your elected officials to advocate for the children that need these programs.

Senate Bill 1974 deals with school readiness legislation and the eligibility status of school age children. This bill retains the eligibility status for:

· families where there is an adult receiving temporary cash assistance;

· children at risk of abuse or neglect; and

· working poor families, who are siblings of a child enrolled in a school readiness program.

The legislation seems to be moving in the right direction regarding the impact on afterschool services and the Florida Afterschool Network (FAN) appreciates the efforts of the Senate.

The State Office of Early Learning (OEL) advises there were approximately 31,096 school age children served through the school readiness program in December 2011. Of this number, 16,198 afterschool children are siblings. These children would maintain their eligibility in the current language.

However, this means that 14,898 school age children up through 12 years of age who do not have siblings currently enrolled in the school readiness program, will no longer be eligible for services.

FAN urges the Senate to take the final step, and reinstate eligibility for all school age children who meet the current statutory requirements.

Proposed Language in Senate Bill 1974:

(6) PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY AND ENROLLMENT.

Each early learning coalition shall give priority for participation in the school readiness program as follows:

a) Priority shall be given first to a child from birth through 12 years of age from a family in which there is an adult receiving temporary cash assistance who is the subject of federal work requirements.

b) Priority shall be given next to an at-risk child age birth through 12 years of age.

c) Priority shall be given next to a child from birth to the beginning of the school year for which

the child is eligible for admission to kindergarten in a public school under s. 1003.21(1)(a)2.

from a working family that is economically disadvantaged. However, the child ceases to be

eligible if his or her family income exceeds 200 percent of the federal poverty level. In

priority shall be given to a child with special needs who is 3 – 5 years of age, determined to

be eligible as a special needs student, and who has an individual education plan (IEP).

d) Priority shall be given next to a child who is younger than 13 years of age and who is a sibling of a child enrolled in the school readiness program under paragraph (c).

e) Notwithstanding paragraphs (a-d), priority shall be given last to a child who otherwise meets the eligibility criteria in subparagraph 3. but who is also enrolled concurrently in the federal Head Start Program or Voluntary Pre-K program.

SB 1974 requires that an early learning coalition may not dis-enroll children on June 30, 2012.

The coalitions are required to wait until a child’s eligibility re-determination date.

FAN proposes the legislature maintain the statutory eligibility of school age children 6 through 12 years of age in the school readiness program.

Recommended language – Amend subparagraph (d) to read:

(d) Priority shall be given next to a child who is younger than 13 years of age who is eligible for any federal subsidized child care program.

FAN believes that if state, or federal dollars are used for school age services, those services must be quality in nature. FAN developed the first statewide afterschool standards for Florida. Though implementation of the standards are voluntary, the FAN Florida Standards for Quality Afterschool Programs have been endorsed by the:

· The Association of Early learning Coalitions

· The Children’s Forum

· The Children’s Services Councils of Florida

· The Department of Children and Families

· The Florida Afterschool Alliance

· The Florida Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs

· Florida’s Office of Early learning

· Hillsborough County Public Schools

· Roundtable of St. Lucie County

· United Ways of Florida

· YMCA’s of Florida

FAN recommends the Senate consider a provision requiring afterschool programs participating in the School Readiness program, at a minimum, meet the Florida Standards for Quality Afterschool Programs. The Standards can be accessed at http://myfan.org/downloads/FAN%20Brochure.

9-Year-Old Voices Her Thoughts on Bill

2012-02-09T15:22:00.000-08:00

The following is the transcript of a letter written by a nine-year-old Florida girl in response to School Readiness Act, Section 41.0102 that is before the Florida House of Representatives. The bill threatens the well-being of tens-of-thousands low-income children, reduces the ability of parents to work extended hours, and potentially increases the burden on other state and federal subsidies.

We hope you will take the time to reach out to your elected officials and express your concerns, much like this little girl did.

February 3, 2012

To the members of the Business and Consumer Affairs House Committee:

Hello. My name is Gabriela Reyes. I am a 9 year old. I am in the after school program at R.C.M.A Wimauma Academy Charter School. I love attending the program because they help me with my homework and I have time to read a lot. Last year my grades went up and I learned to love math. My mom and dad work at a farm where they pick strawberries. Without the afterschool school program either my mom or dad would have to quit their job. We wouldn’t have money for food or clothes for me, my brother or my sister.

I am asking on behalf of my education future and my friends who are also in the school readiness program to include school age children in the School Readiness House Bill.

Sincerely, Gabriela Reyes

Who Will Take Care of Florida’s Young Children after the Bell Rings?

2012-02-03T14:29:00.000-08:00

There is currently a committee bill before the Florida House of Representatives (School Readiness Act, Section 411.0102) that threatens the well-being of tens-of-thousands low-income children, reduces the ability of parents to work extended hours, and potentially increases the burden on other state and federal subsidies. Among other things, the bill would eliminate subsidized afterschool services for over 32,000 low-income children ages 6, 7, and 8. These children would be unenrolled from their afterschool programs with few, if any, safe alternatives - a scenario with devastating impacts on our children’s education, our educational system, and our economy.

Nearly 25 percent of Florida’s K-12 youth are already responsible for taking care of themselves after school, and this bill could significantly increase that number. Children left alone afterschool spend an average of 15 hours per week unsupervised with little personal and academic enrichment. Research indicates these children are more likely to commit crimes, become involved with gangs, experiment with drugs and alcohol, and drop out of school. Fortunately, research also shows that participation in quality afterschool programs protects children and communities from such negative outcomes. Indeed, compared to non-participants, students in structured afterschool programs have higher standardized math and reading assessment scores, higher self-esteem and self-efficacy, higher graduation rates, and an increased likelihood to become productive citizens.

Not only will the proposed School Readiness Act negatively impact the quality of life for Florida’s children, but reduced productivity and employability of the affected parents will have staggering economic impacts on families, businesses, and communities. For instance, research has shown that parents whose children are not in afterschool programs missed an average of eight days of work per year, as compared to three days per year for parents whose children are in afterschool programs. Across Florida families impacted by the proposed bill, this equates to the potential loss of 1.3 million work hours. Another study found parental concern about children's safety during afterschool hours increases worker stress, increases counterproductivity, and can cost businesses over $300 billion annually in lost job productivity.

If the School Readiness Act should pass, several questions would remain unanswered. How do legislators expect 6, 7, and 8-year-olds to take care of themselves afterschool? How will Florida businesses recover billions in losses secondary to parental worry, lost productivity, and higher absenteeism? What is the actual financial impact to taxpayers and state agencies, particularly with the likelihood of increased reports to the Abuse Hot Line due to children being left unsupervised afterschool? Ultimately, it seems the significant and detrimental human and financial costs in the aftermath of the proposed School Readiness Act will far outweigh any short-term benefits of tightening our state budget.

Certainly, we understand the Florida Legislature has a limited budget and that cuts to programs will be unavoidable. However, funding for afterschool services for young children must not be eliminated for the sake of our children, their families, our communities, our economy and the future of our state.

- Larry Pintacuda, Chief Executive Officer, Florida Afterschool Network (myFAN.org)

Revised Standards for Afterschool Programs Now Available

2012-01-22T11:42:00.001-08:00

The Florida Afterschool Network is pleased to announce that the second edition of the Florida Standards for Quality Afterschool programs is now available. These Standards define the core principles and best practices that lead to the delivery of quality afterschool programming for children and youth. Through the cumulative work of FAN and its many partners, the Standards provide a framework for the development of a caring, dynamic, stimulating and safe afterschool environment.

The Florida Afterschool Network (FAN) Board of Directors would like to recognize and thank the following organizations and agencies for their input, advice and recommendations in the development of the Florida Standards for Quality Afterschool Programs:

§ Boys and Girls Clubs of Florida

§ Children’s Forum

§ Children’s Services Councils of Florida

§ Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida

§ Florida After School Alliance

§ Florida Department of Children and Families/Child Care Licensing Office

§ Florida Department of Education/21st Century Community Learning Centers

§ Florida’s Office of Early Learning

§ Hillsborough County Public Schools

§ National Afterschool Association

§ YMCAs

§ City and County Parks and Recreation Departments

§ Local Early Learning Coalitions

§ Local School Systems

§ Public and Private Afterschool Practitioners

FAN’s Board of Directors would also like to thank the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation for their continued support and encouragement. The work, energy and commitment of all participants truly make this document epitomize the term “quality.”

The Florida Standards for Quality Afterschool Programs has been endorsed by:

§ Association of Early Learning Coalitions

§ Children’s Forum

§ Children’s Services Councils of Florida

§ Department of Children and Families

§ Florida After School Alliance

§ Florida Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs

§ Florida’s Office of Early Learning

§ Hillsborough County Public Schools

§ Roundtable of St. Lucie County

§ United Ways of Florida

§ YMCAs of Florida

The Florida Standards for Afterschool Programs can be found at FAN’s website at http://www.myfan.org/. The new self-assessment tools will be announced in mid-February.

Panel of Champions Profile: Judge John Frusciante

2012-01-11T17:44:00.000-08:00

Retired Judge John Frusciante is a member of the Florida Afterschool Network Panel of Champions. He sat on the bench of the 17^th Judicial Circuit Court for 20 years (Broward County, Fort Lauderdale.) He sat in all the Divisions and was Chief Judge of the Juvenile and Dependency Divisions (Dependency refers to children that are dependent on the State of Florida for their safety – mentally and physically. This is the division that deals with children that are sexually and physically abused, abandoned or neglected.)

He was honored in 2010 with the William E. Gladstone Award. The award is named after Judge William E. Gladstone, a pioneer, advocate and Champion for children’s rights and dignity – especially in the legal field. It is given no more than once a year to the Judge or General Magistrate in the State of Florida “who has significantly advanced the welfare and protection of our State’s children” and advocated “for the dignity of children.”

Though he retired in 2010, Frusciante still works with the National Center for Trauma in Children and attends meetings with the Children and Family Leaders Association of Broward County (CFLA) in addition to being a Board Member of the Florida Chapter of the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges. (FCJFCJ)

He has a Bachelor of Music and Master of Science degrees from the Juilliard School of Music. While his goal was to be a concert pianist, a broken finger and spinal fusion led him to law. He has a Juris Doctorate degree from Nova University (now Nova Southeastern) Law School. He is currently teaching a short course on Dependency at Nova.

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-23T16:41:00.000-08:00

From our family to yours, Florida Afterschool Network wishes you a very happy, healthy and safe holiday! We thank you for continued support. Below are some fun facts about the holidays. Enjoy!

Christmas was declared a national holiday in 1870.

President Franklin Pierce was the first President to decorate the White House Christmas tree.

Each year, Florida Christmas tree growers produce over 120,000 freshly cut quality trees for the holiday season.

Hanukkah is celebrated every year between the end of November and the end of December. It begins on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev, which varies from year to year on the Western calendar. The eight day celebration commemorates the rededication of the Jerusalem temple, and the miracle of the sacred lamp that burned for eight days on a single day’s oil.

Kwanzaa is a seven day celebration of African culture begun by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor at California State University. Celebrated from December 26th to January 1st, Kwanzaa (which means “first fruits of the harvest”) is meant to honor African heritage and present day life in America. The holiday ends with a large feast on the final evening called Karamu.

Source: http://www.justreadfamilies.org/holidays/facts.asp

Changes at FAN

2011-12-19T04:39:00.001-08:00

The Florida Afterschool Network is pleased to announce some exciting changes. Joe Davis has been appointed the Chief Operating Officer for the organization.

Davis previously was the Chairman of the FAN Board of Directors. In addition, he most recently served as Chief of the Bureau of Family and Community Outreach at the Florida Department of Education. Joe’s commitment to Florida’s children and families has resulted in several awards, including a statewide “Award of Excellence” from the Florida Afterschool Alliance, an Honorary Life Membership in the Florida PTA, and Fellow status with the Florida Supreme Court Justice Teaching Institute (JTI). Davis is a lifelong educator who is a great addition to the FAN staff.

“I am very excited about my new position,” said Davis. “The Florida Afterschool Program is a great organization that is truly making a difference in communities across the state. There is still much to do, and I am looking forward to taking on the challenge.”

Linda Lanier has been named the Chairman of the FAN Board of Directors. Lanier previously served as Vice Chairman and has been the Executive Director and CEO of the Jacksonville Children’s Commission since 2003. She is also the current chair of the Florida Children’s Services Council (FCSC). She previously served on the Commission on Homelessness, appointed in 2000 by Governor Jeb Bush.

Dr. Steve Wilkerson has been named the FAN Board of Directors Vice Chairman. Wilkerson has been President of the Florida Cable Telecommunication Association since 1987 where he is the CEO for the trade association representing four major cable companies in Florida who serve five million cable customers. His commitment education runs deep. He sits on the Board for the Florida Institute for School Innovation, Florida Network for Runaways and the United Way of Leon County (just to name a few).

Executive Director Larry Pintacuda has been unanimously promoted by the Board of Directors to the title of Chief Executive Director. Larry has worked tirelessly to build the Florida Afterschool Program in to the organization it is today.

“Joe. Linda and Steve have been an integral member of the FAN Board of Directors for many years,” said Executive Director Larry Pintacuda. “We have taken so many steps forward in the past year for afterschool programs, and I know we are only going to take more. I am honored the Board has valued my work and named me CEO, and I am thrilled for the future.”

Florida One of Nine States to Get High Marks in Afterschool Alliance Report

2011-12-12T18:24:00.000-08:00

Below is a press release announcing the 2011 State-by-State Afterschool Progress Reports and Consumer Guides. Developed by the Afterschool Alliance and sponsored by jcpenney, the report shows that states are showing improvement, but a lot still needs to be done. Florida, along with eight other states, received the highest ranking.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A new assessment of states’ progress toward offering afterschool programs to all children who need them finds that many states are making progress, but all have unfinished business to keep kids safe and learning after the school day ends. The new 2011 State-by-State Afterschool Progress Reports and Consumer Guides, which are being released in conjunction with Lights On Afterschool, the only national rally for afterschool, measured all 50 states on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best rating. No states received a 5 and only nine states (California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey and New York) received a 4. Twenty states received a 3; 19 states a 2; and Delaware and Idaho received the lowest rating, a 1.

The Progress Reports were developed by the Afterschool Alliance and sponsored by jcpenney. They are being released today at the Jacksonville, Florida Lights On Afterschool event – one of 17 winners of the “Light Up a Landmark” contest sponsored by jcpenney and the Afterschool Alliance. For the fifth year, the Empire State Building also will be lit up for Lights On Afterschool today. The new Progress Reports examine how each state is helping keep the lights on for kids and families after school by considering: the availability of and participation in afterschool programs, based on data from the landmark 2009 America After 3PM household survey; recent state policy activity and funding for afterschool programs; and state-level leadership on afterschool from policy makers. They find:

· Twenty-one states are currently funding afterschool programs.

· Thirty-one states have an initiative in place that promotes quality in afterschool programming.

· Only 13 states have passed legislation that directly supports afterschool programs.

· Just 15 states have state-level councils, studies, pilots or ongoing legislative activity designed to advance afterschool.

· Only six states reduced the number of children in self-care in the afternoons from 2004 to 2009, the two years during which national household surveys were conducted.

The Progress Reports also include information for parents on how to find and support

afterschool programs in each state. Links to state and national resources for finding programs are available, and parents and non-parents alike are directed to specific action steps that they can take to support afterschool.

“Millions of children in this country are unsupervised and at risk after the school day ends,” said Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant. “This report should serve as a wake-up call that we need to do much more to make quality afterschool programs available. Even in tough economic times like these, we must ensure that our children get the education and supports they need to succeed in school and in life. Afterschool programs are a great investment, providing opportunities for engaging, hands-on learning that often aren’t available during the school day.

Today all across the country, at 7,500 Lights On Afterschool events, a million people are urging state and federal lawmakers to remember that afterschool programs keep kids safe, inspire them to learn, and help working families – and to make afterschool funding a priority.”

In conjunction with Lights On Afterschool events across the nation, jcpenney will invite its customers to support the afterschool cause through the “pennies from heaven” campaign Oct. 12- 25. During that period, customers can round up purchases to the nearest whole dollar and donate the difference to a local afterschool program that provides life-enriching opportunities for children in need.

“As a leading corporate advocate for the afterschool cause, jcpenney is committed to building the resources needed to offer quality afterschool services in every community,” said Jodi Gibson, divisional vice president for jcpenney and president of jcpenney afterschool. “By partnering with the Afterschool Alliance to determine the unique needs of every state, families, educators and policy makers can make informed decisions that will make afterschool programs available and accessible to those who need it most.”

A significant body of research demonstrates that students who attend afterschool programs regularly are more likely to improve their grades, tests scores and overall academic behavior. Nationwide, more than 15 million school-age children – more than one in four kids in the United States – are unsupervised after the school day ends. The parents of 18 million children say they would enroll their kids in afterschool programs – if programs were available.

Methodology

Scores for the Progress Reports were devised using a range of factors falling under three major categories: growth in afterschool participation; developments in state afterschool policy and funding; and advancements in state afterschool leadership. Data from the America After 3PM survey were used to assess afterschool participation. A total of 29,754 parents/guardians were surveyed between March and May 2009 for America After 3PM. The progress reports also used up-to-date policy and leadership developments obtained from afterschool leaders in the states, most notably the 40 statewide afterschool networks. The 2011 State-by-State Progress Reports and Consumer Guides reflect the data and resources available at the time of their release in October 2011.

O'Hara Joins FAN's Panel of Champions

2011-12-05T15:59:00.001-08:00

The Florida Afterschool Network is pleased to announce that Mr. Art O’Hara is the newest member of our Panel of Champions.

Art is the Executive Director of the R’Club in Pinellas County. R’Club serves children and their families at more than 40 before and after school programs, exceptional student centers, preschools and middle school youth development programs in Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties. In addition, the R'Club provides care for more than 600 children daily who have special needs and operates extended learning programs in both exceptional student education centers in Pinellas County.

The Florida Afterschool Network Panel of Champions consists of members of the community that are committed to children and afterschool programs. They are an elite group of leaders, educators and innovators with a diverse background. They are champions in their community.

FAN is excited that Art has agreed to become a member of the FAN panel of Champions.

FAN to Partner with FCTA on Cable Special

2011-12-01T17:18:00.001-08:00

The Florida Afterschool Network is excited to announce that our organization will partner with the Florida Cable Telecommunications Association (FCTA) on a cable special highlighting children’s issues.

The special will be unique in that it will focus on how we can navigate kids issues through a legislative session that again is faced with large budget deficits. The cable special is the brainchild of FAN Board member Steve Wilkerson, President and CEO, FCTA, and will be directed by Janice Caluda, Executive Vice President, FCTA.

The format is a panel discussion moderated by Steve, and will feature panelists: Jennifer Carroll (Florida Lieutenant Governor), David Lawrence (FAN Panel of Champion member, retired publisher of the Miami Herald and President of the Children’s Movement), Michael Lannon (FAN Board member and Superintendent of Schools St. Lucie County) and Brittany Birken (CEO the Florida Children’s Council).

The special will be taped on Monday, December 12^th and will be aired prior to and during the coming legislative session. FAN is very proud and excited to partner with Florida Cable on this important project. We at FAN offer our sincere thanks to Steve, Janice and the entire FCTA team and to the wonderful panel members.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T09:13:00.001-08:00

The Florida Afterschool Network wishes everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving. For your reading pleasure, below are fun Thanksgiving Facts from the History Channel.

History

In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies. For more than two centuries, days of thanksgiving were celebrated by individual colonies and states. It wasn't until 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November. Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of each November.

Thanksgiving Over the Years

Though many competing claims exist, the most familiar story of the first Thanksgiving took place in Plymouth Colony, in present-day Massachusetts, in 1621. More than 200 years later, President Abraham Lincoln declared the final Thursday in November as a national day of thanksgiving. Congress finally made Thanksgiving Day an official national holiday in 1941.

Sarah Josepha Hale, the enormously influential magazine editor and author who waged a tireless campaign to make Thanksgiving a national holiday in the mid-19th century, was also the author of the classic nursery rhyme "Mary Had a Little Lamb."

In 2001, the U.S. Postal Service issued a commemorative Thanksgiving stamp. Designed by the artist Margaret Cusack in a style resembling traditional folk-art needlework, it depicted a cornucopia overflowing with fruits and vegetables, under the phrase "We Give Thanks."

Thanksgiving On the Roads

The American Automobile Association (AAA) estimated that 42.2 million Americans traveled 50 miles or more from home over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend in 2010.

Thanksgiving On the Table

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Minnesota is the top turkey-producing state in America, with a planned production total of 46.5 million in 2011. Six states—Minnesota, North Carolina, Arkansas, Missouri, Virginia, and Indinia—account for nearly two-thirds of the 248 million turkeys that will be raised in the U.S. this year.

The National Turkey Federation estimated that 46 million turkeys—one fifth of the annual total of 235 million consumed in the United States in 2007—were eaten at Thanksgiving.

In a survey conducted by the National Turkey Federation, nearly 88 percent of Americans said they eat turkey at Thanksgiving. The average weight of turkeys purchased for Thanksgiving is 15 pounds, which means some 690 million pounds of turkey were consumed in the U.S. during Thanksgiving in 2007.

Cranberry production in the U.S. is expected to reach 750 million pounds in 2011. Wisconsin, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon and Washington are the top cranberry growing states.

Illinois, California, Pennsylvania and New York are the major pumpkin growing states, together they produced 1.1 billion pounds of pumpkin in 2010. Total U.S. production was over 1.5 billion pounds.

The sweet potato is most plentifully produced in North Carolina, which grew 972 million pounds of the popular Thanksgiving side dish vegetable in 2010. Other sweet potato powerhouses included California and Mississippi, and the top producing states together generated over 2.4 billion pounds of the tubers.

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the largest pumpkin pie ever baked weighed 2,020 pounds and measured just over 12 feet long. It was baked on October 8, 2005 by the New Bremen Giant Pumpkin Growers in Ohio, and included 900 pounds of pumpkin, 62 gallons of evaporated milk, 155 dozen eggs, 300 pounds of sugar, 3.5 pounds of salt, 7 pounds of cinnamon, 2 pounds of pumpkin spice and 250 pounds of crust.

Thanksgiving Around the Country

Three towns in the U.S. take their name from the traditional Thanksgiving bird, including Turkey, Texas (pop. 465); Turkey Creek, Louisiana (pop. 363); and Turkey, North Carolina (pop. 270).

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Originally known as Macy's Christmas Parade—to signify the launch of the Christmas shopping season—the first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade took place in New York City in 1924. It was launched by Macy's employees and featured animals from the Central Park Zoo. Today, some 3 million people attend the annual parade and another 44 million watch it on television.

Tony Sarg, a children's book illustrator and puppeteer, designed the first giant hot air balloons for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1927. He later created the elaborate mechanically animated window displays that grace the façade of the New York store from Thanksgiving to Christmas.

Snoopy has appeared as a giant balloon in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade more times than any other character in history. As the Flying Ace, Snoopy made his sixth appearance in the 2006 parade.

Football

The first time the Detroit Lions played football on Thanksgiving Day was in 1934, when they hosted the Chicago Bears at the University of Detroit stadium, in front of 26,000 fans. The NBC radio network broadcast the game on 94 stations across the country--the first national Thanksgiving football broadcast. Since that time, the Lions have played a game every Thanksgiving (except between 1939 and 1944); in 1956, fans watched the game on television for the first time.

Source: History.com

http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving

http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving-facts

Panel of Champions Profile: Douglas Sessions

2011-11-10T06:01:00.001-08:00

Douglas Sessions, Jr. is President and CEO of the Ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida. The Ounce of Prevention Fund is a private, non-profit founded in 1989 to identify, fund, support and evaluate unique and innovative prevention and early intervention programs and community initiatives to improve the development and life outcomes of children and to preserve and strengthen families. He has served in this capacity for 16 years.

Prior to joining the Ounce of Prevention Fund, Mr. Sessions served as a senior aide in the administration of Florida Governor Reubin Askew, as a Vice President for the New York Yankees, as a senior partner in various business ventures, and as a private business and governmental consultant.

Mr. Sessions is a fifth generation Floridian, a native of Jacksonville, a product of the state’s public school system, and holds BA and MS degrees from the University of South Florida and the Florida State University, respectively. Mr. Sessions resides in Tallahassee with his wife Cynthia Lee. The Sessions have three married daughters and four grandchildren.

Board Spotlight: Joe Davis

2011-11-07T18:44:00.001-08:00

Joe Davis serves as Chair of the Florida Afterschool Network and is also Chief of the Bureau of Family and Community Outreach at the Florida Department of Education.

Davis began his career teaching English, exceptional student education, and American History at Augusta Raa Middle School, in Tallahassee, for nearly ten years.

As a teacher, he enlisted the services of parents, families, businesses, government agencies, and community leaders, and encouraged them to become more involved in the educational process in order to positively impact student achievement.

Davis has worked nationally as an education consultant, primarily assisting schools with the school improvement process, and has served the Florida Department of Education since 2002. During his time at the Department, Davis has coordinated family literacy programs, conducted parent involvement trainings, and directed afterschool programs. As Bureau Chief, he currently oversees the offices of Safe Schools, Dropout Prevention, 21^st Century Community Learning Centers, Faith and Community-Based Outreach, Parental Involvement, Awards and Recognition for Community Outreach, and Volunteer Coordinators.

Davis’ commitment to Florida’s children and families has resulted in several awards, including a statewide “Award of Excellence” from the Florida Afterschool Alliance, an Honorary Life Membership in the Florida PTA, and Fellow status with the Florida Supreme Court Justice Teaching Institute (JTI).

Davis attended Florida State University.

How Afterschool Programs Impact Juvenile Delinquency & Gang Prevention

2011-11-02T16:00:00.001-07:00

Quality afterschool programs offer more than just supervision. Quality programs offer a variety of activities and curriculum to meet most every kids interests and abilities. Not only do quality afterschool programs have an impact on educational achievement, social development, and child safety, these programs have been found to positively impact the behavior and social skills of children and youth who attend.

Studies have found that afterschool participants are more assertive, less aggressive, and better at resolving conflicts. Participants tend to have better peer interactions, and less likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drinking alcohol, taking illegal drugs, smoking, and teenage sexual activity. In addition, they are less likely to hang out in gangs or participate in serious crimes than their unsupervised peers

With all these studies showing the benefits of afterschool programs, one would think every child would have the opportunity to participate. Not the case! Not even close! Almost 25% of Florida’s K-12 youth are responsible for taking care of themselves after school? These children spend an average of 15 hours per week unsupervised. What are the consequences?

A Fight Crime: Invest in Kids study found that violent juvenile crime “suddenly triples” in the hour after school lets out. In addition, the study discovered that between the hours of 2-6 p.m., kids are most likely to become victims of violent crime; be killed in a car accident; be killed by household or other accidents; get hooked on alcohol and cigarettes; experiment with other dangerous drugs; and engage in sexual activities.

In an economy where ever organization is fighting for funding, quality afterschool programs should be a priority. A 2008 Presidential Campaign poll found that 76% of voters want state and local officials to increase funding for afterschool, believe afterschool is important to curbing the dropout rate and think afterschool programs are important to preparing our future workforce. 83% believed there should be some type of organized activity or safe place for kids to go afterschool every day.

The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) in a study of 73 afterschool programs found that that afterschool programs succeeded in improving youths’ feelings of self confidence and self esteem. They also reduced problem behaviors (e.g. aggression, non-compliance and conduct problems) and drug use. In sum, afterschool programs produced multiple benefits that pertain to youths’ personal, social and academic life.

There are so many benefits of quality afterschool programs. Investing in afterschool programs is investing in our children’s futures. Is there any better investment?

Lannon Now A Board Member of FAN

2011-10-21T15:49:00.000-07:00

The Florida Afterschool Network is pleased to announce Michael Lannon, Superintendent of Schools for St. Lucie County is now a Board Member. He is a longtime supporter of FAN and previously served on the Panel of Champions.

Lannon has more than 43 years of experience in education. Before coming to St. Lucie County, he served as the elected Superintendent of Monroe County School District. His work experience includes teaching in Los Angeles, teaching on the Navajo Indian Reservation in New Mexico, serving as Community School Coordinator, Assistant Principal at elementary and middle school levels, and Principal high school level. He serves on the Board of Directors and was past President of the Florida Association of District School Superintendents. He is an active member of the Governors Board for the American Association of School Administrators. He was also the 2007 Florida Superintendent of the Year.

He serves on the boards of the Economic Development Council, United Way of St. Lucie County, Workforce Development Board, St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce, Children’s Services Council, Early Learning Coalition, The Alliance of the Treasure Coast and the Education Foundation of St. Lucie County.

Optional Flexibility Waiver Threatens Quality After School Programs: A Message from FAN Executive Director Larry Larry Pintacuda

2011-10-16T16:54:00.001-07:00

Hello Friends,

For more than 10 years, Florida afterschool providers have been working together with the Florida Department of Education to build first-rate 21st Century Community Learning Centers across Florida. We have created quality standards, trained staff and leaders, and linked to national research and stakeholders. We have explored the best ways to learn in the afterschool hours, built strong partnerships with schools and a wide variety of community partners, and found ways to serve and engage families.

Through these efforts, Florida has developed an exemplary 21st CCLC program which is focused on continuous improvement, as well as fun, hands-on engaged learning for our students. Students who participate in 21st CCLC programs throughout the state are offered opportunities to conduct science experiments, solve hands-on and real-world math problems, develop reading skills, engage in meaningful service learning, work with mentors, learn musical instruments, play sports, learn to paint, sculpt and dance, and have other experiences that change and shape their lives forever.

Currently we are facing a potential threat to the funding we have been working so hard to obtain. The Optional Flexibility Waiver provision is included as part of the President Obama’s No Child Left Behind waiver announcement. This provision could fundamentally alter the purpose of the 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) program by allowing these funds (Title IV, Part B of NCLB) to be used to add time to the regular school day without providing guidance on how such time would be used.

We recognize that though this voluntary waiver will provide educators and State and local leaders with flexibility regarding specific requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB), unlike the other waiver provisions, the expanded learning time provision could significantly and negatively impact federal afterschool program funding.

Successful afterschool programs are effective not only because of the scope of academic and personal development services provided, but because these services are provided at a time when the children who need this programming the most would be otherwise unsupervised, unsupported, and disengaged from meaningful enrichment. Allowing these funds to be used during the course of the regular school day would prevent these effective programs from providing either a full scope of valuable services or a safe place to learn and grow.

Much progress has been made to create quality afterschool programs. It is imperative that steps are not taken backwards. We are all dedicated to insuring our nation’s children are provided every opportunity to achieve at the highest academic levels. And while we have the same end in mind, it is imperative that we chart the best path to reach this goal. As Winston Churchill famously said, “Americans can always be counted on to do the right thing, after they have exhausted all other possibilities.”

We hope that rather than exhaust precious time and funds, Florida’s elected officials and educational executives will do the proverbial “right thing” and not “check the box” on the optional waiver, thereby allowing the 21st CCLC program to continue to operate in its current, successful form.

I have personally reached out to our elected officials and the head of the Department of Education voicing concerns of this program’s impact on after school program funding. We ask all our supporters to please support our effort to secure Florida's 21st CCLC programs and ensure quality afterschool programming for the children of Florida who need it most.

Thanks for your support,

Larry

Lights on Afterschool Day: Proclamation by Governor Scott

2011-10-10T19:39:00.000-07:00

WHEREAS, aferschool programs provide safe, challenging, engaging and fun learning experiences to help children and youth develop their social, emotional, physical, cultural and academic skills; and

WHEREAS, after school programs have provided significant leadership in the area of community involvement in the education and well-being of our youth, grounded in the principle that quality afterschool programs are key to helping our children become successful adults;

WHEREAS, Lights on Afterschool, the national celebration of afterschool programs aims to promote the importance of quality afterschool programs in the lives of children, families and communities; and

WHEREAS, more than 28 million children in the U.S. have parents who work outside the home, and more than 14 million have no place to go after school; and

WHEREAS, many afterschool programs across the county are facing funding shortfalls so severe that they are being forced to close their doors and turn off their lights; and

WHEREAS, Florida is committed to investing in the health and safety of all young people by providing expanded learning opportunities that will help close the achievement gap and prepare young people to compete in the global economy.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Rick Scott, Governor of the state of Florida, do hereby extend greetings and best wishes to all observing Oct. 20, 2011 as Lights on Afterschool Day.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have herento set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Florida to be affixed at Tallahassee, the Capitol, this 30^th day of September, in the year two thousand eleven.

FAN Panel of Champion Lannon Finalist for District Data of the Year Award

2011-10-06T18:54:00.000-07:00

St. Lucie County Superintendent and Florida Afterschool Network Panel of Champion Member Michael Lannon is a finalist in the Florida Department of Education District Data of the Year Award.

The program recognizes Florida school district superintendents who are leading the way in using education data to drive student improvement. District Data Leaders strive to communicate the relevance of education data to teachers, administrators, parents, students, and other stakeholders while demonstrating leadership regarding data distribution. District Data Leaders continually seek new methods to improve the use of data in their communities and schools, and employ innovative data strategies that help to inform instruction and move student achievement forward.

The District Data Leader of the Year Program seeks to recognize these data leaders for their extraordinary efforts and their dedication to making every one of their students successful.

Lannon established policies that set the stage for implementation of clearly defined curricular and performance standards, leading to the acquisition of the Learning Village curriculum management system. This system serves as a comprehensive repository of tagged digital assets that are aligned with the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards and Common Core State Standards, including curriculum and instructional resources.

“I'm honored to be in the company of such outstanding educational and civic leaders as my follow nominees,” Lannon said.

Congrats, Michael, and good luck!

Before, During and After School: Florida KidCare is There

2011-10-04T16:36:00.000-07:00

Good eating habits, exercise and sufficient sleep are just a few ways for kids to stay healthy. If you add quality health insurance with Florida KidCare to the mix, you have a recipe for children to be successful before, during and after school.

Florida KidCare is the state’s low-cost health insurance for children birth through age 18. The program has four components that address the needs of kids at every age and every income level.

There are currently about 1.9 million kids who receive services such as doctor visits, immunizations, dental care, prescriptions and much more. One of the best parts about the program is that all children in Florida can apply—regardless of income.

The amount families’ pay is based on household income and family size. Many pay $15 or $20 a month, but most pay nothing at all. Plus, we have a full-pay option available for households above twice the Federal Poverty Level or for a family of four, those making more than $44,000 per year.

After school officials, teachers, administrators and staff all have a responsibility to ensure that students have access to the resources that will help them excel – from crayons and paper to tutoring and health insurance, they all are equally important.

If there is a child in your after-school program without insurance, talk to his or her parents about applying for Florida KidCare. They can apply online at www.floridakidcare.org; print an application from the website and mail it to P.O. Box 980, Tallahassee, FL 32302-0980; or call 1-888-540-5437 to have an application mailed to them.

Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Renews Partnership with Florida Afterschool Network

2011-09-21T17:16:00.001-07:00

The Florida Afterschool Network (FAN) is proud to announce that its proposal for third funding cycle from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation has been approved. The project period runs from October 1, 2011 through September 30, 2014.

Grant foundation awards Florida Afterschool Network $569,000

By Ashley Ames
Democrat staff writer

Larry Pintacuda's voice takes on a certain urgency when he discusses the importance of after-school programs in Florida.

"Kids in quality after-school programs do better in school, there is less teen pregnancy, drop-out rates are reduced," he said.

"I'm passionate about kids. It's been my whole life," said Pintacuda, executive director of the Florida Afterschool Network. "I've seen how these kids come in (to after-school programs) and develop and become great kids."

FAN works to advocate for and improve after-school programs statewide. That comes in the form of securing funding from the Legislature for those programs, developing and updating what qualifies as quality after-school care, and, most recently, partnering with state colleges to develop official certification for after-school practitioners — including at the college level.

Pintacuda announced Monday that the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation — a Michigan-based grant-making organization centered on community and environmental improvement — approved FAN's proposal for funding. The foundation, which has supported FAN since the network's inception in 2005, will give the nonprofit $569,000 over the next three years, Pintacuda said. FAN will then match that amount by a dollar and a half, much of which will come from the United Way of Florida, the Florida After School Alliance, the Florida Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs and other organizations. FAN operates on about $180,000 a year, Pintacuda said.

FAN's mission also comes to life through the collaboration of partners across the state, including former Miami Herald publisher David Lawrence, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D- Fla., and Frank Brogan, chancellor of the State University System. This networking, which also includes FAN's board of directors, helps the non-profit achieve its goal, Pintacuda said.

"These are all people who are passionate about after-school programs, who will help us try to sell the importance of after-school programs," he said.

Pintacuda said the importance of after-school programs could be seen by simply looking at the numbers. In Florida, 750,000 students spend an average of 15 hours a week unsupervised after school lets out, he said. He said that from 2 to 6 p.m., kids are most likely to become victims of violent crime, be killed in a car accident or other accident, experiment with drugs and engage in sexual activities.

"Our mission is to ensure that every kid has an opportunity to participate in a quality after-school program," Pintacuda said. The awarding of the funding will further that goal.

"It will allow us to continue to push for quality after-school programs in this state," he said.

The Children's Forum, a Tallahassee-based nonprofit that works to improve services for children and families, is one of FAN's partners. Jenna Jacobsen-Brown, Children's Forum communications and membership services director, agreed with the need for quality after-school care.

"Research shows that children in after-school programs are less likely to commit crimes, less likely to do drugs," she said. "FAN is one vehicle that can express why quality after-school programs are so important for children in Florida."

Florida Afterschool Network's Larry Pintacuda Featured on The Children's Trust

2011-09-14T17:16:00.000-07:00

Florida Afterschool Network Executive Director Larry Pintacuda was a recent guest on The Children's Trust speaking about the mission of the Florida Afterschool Network.

He is the second guest in this segment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=La0Gn1XSfHU&feature=player_detailpage#t=556s

The Children’s Trust emphasizes collaboration and partnership in order to provide the programs and services needed by children and families and to effect community-wide change. As we have since our inception, The Children's Trust encourages creative approaches to coordinating, integrating and funding services across and within the areas of health, safety, development and to promote increased parental and community involvement on behalf of all our children, while stressing accountability and results.

How To Pick the Right Afterschool Program?

2011-09-04T13:28:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, not every afterschool program is created equal. Because of that, it is crucial for parents to do their homework and pick the program that is right for their children.

First step: talk with your kids about what they are interested in. Let’s be honest, kids interest change all the time, so find out what sports they like, are they into music or art, or what about languages? Make a list of what they would want to do afterschool.

After you select a couple programs that match up with your children’s interests, it is time to go to work on researching the programs and their staff. The quality of staff is critical to the overall quality of the program. You will want to make sure that all staff is screened by the FBI and local law enforcement and that all have had CPR and first aid training.

Then ask about the credentials of the staff – what degrees and certifications do they hold? Ask about staff experience and education in early childhood/school-age care, recreation and, if needed, serving children with special needs.

You also want to ask about the child/staff ratio. Florida’s maximum staff-to-child ratio for school-age children is 1-to-25. National quality standards recommend between 1-to-8 and 1-to-15 for children age 5-teens, and group sizes no larger than 30. You want to ensure that your child is being attended to at all times and get one-on-one time.

Now that you have narrowed down your list, plan a visit. Every program should welcome parents to come and tour the facilities. The same is true when you enroll your child in the program. Ask to see a lesson plan. Quality programs provide more than continuous free play. Plans should be consistent with the philosophy of the program and should include indoor, outdoor, quiet, active, staff-planned, child-initiated and free choice activities.

Bring your child with you to the tour. Although you as the parent want to be happy with the program and facility, more importantly, your child needs to be happy with it. This should be a joint decision, so make your child as part of the process as possible.

Remember, do your homework and find a program that has a quality staff and is best in line with your child’s interests.

Why We Need Afterschool Programs

2011-08-17T05:48:00.001-07:00

In a perfect world, parents could drop off their children, go to work, and pick them up when the last bell rings. Unfortunately, that is not the reality for most. Many parents are left with the difficult task of figuring out where their children are going to go in the hours between school ending and when the parent gets out of work. Complicating matters, what about the summer months when school is not in session? Children don’t just need a babysitter – they need to engage in activities that grow their mind, body and spirit.

Afterschool programs are crucial to the development of children. School doesn’t end when children walk out of the classroom. Students need to keep learning and be active. With budget shortfalls, schools are struggling to provide more with less. Now more than ever, children need an additional resource. And that is where afterschool programs come in to play.

Report after report has shown the benefits of afterschool programs to children: better test scores and performance in the classroom, they are less likely to engage in dangerous behaviors and there is less stress for the family (http://www.afterschoolalliance.org/after_out.cfm).

Unfortunately, not every afterschool program is created equal. That’s why organizations like the Florida Afterschool Network (FAN) are so important. FAN strives to provide unified statewide leadership to advocate for the development, enhancement and sustainability of innovative, high quality afterschool programs and policies.

FAN was created, so there would be a focused approach to this population that is often overlooked in policy discussions. By creating a coalition of organizations and bringing together some of the most educated and influential individuals on the topic of childcare, FAN is hoping to give every child the opportunity to succeed by providing as many resources as possible. Parents can’t do it alone. Teachers can’t do it alone. It’s up to the community and organizations like FAN to help children become the best adults they can be.