City Helps Kick Off National Promotional Campaign for After School Programs
San Diego’s “6 to 6” Program One of 22 “After School Ambassadors"

SAN DIEGO – Third District Councilmember Toni Atkins joined together with parents and students at Monroe Clark Middle School to officially kick off the third annual Lights On After School Day to promote after school programs.  

This nationwide event, organized by the After School Alliance and chaired by actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, includes rallies at more than 5,000 after school programs across the country.

“The ‘6 to 6’ Program provides a wonderful learning opportunity in a safe, nurturing environment to children during the hours their parents work,” said Councilmember Atkins.  “Lights On After School Day highlights San Diego’s commitment to the enrichment and safety of our children.”

Lights On After School is a national campaign to recognize the importance of quality after school programs for children, their families, and their communities.  The City of San Diego’s “6 to 6” Extended School Day Program has been providing safe and supervised education, enrichment, and recreation activities for children ages five to 12 in the City since 1998.  The City of San Diego’s “6 to 6” Extended School Day Program serves as a model to the rest of the country and was named one of 22 “After School Ambassadors.”

Lights On After School is sponsored by JC Penney and supported by the YMCA of the USA, 21^st Century Community Learning Centers, and more than 60 other national organizations.

“JC Penney’s after school programs help enhance curriculums, upgrade facilities, train staff and volunteers, provide transportation and sponsor events that positively impact children’s chances for success,” said Rick Wohl, manager of JC Penney’s Fashion Valley store.  JC Penney’s is co-sponsoring this event with a $30 million national commitment over five years and presented a $5,000 check for San Diego’s “6 to 6” Program.

The City of San Diego’s “6 to 6” Extended School Day Program currently serves more than 25,000 students in 202 elementary and middle schools.  The program is overseen by the City’s Community and Economic Development Department, which works to improve the quality of life and ensure a healthy economy for all San Diegans. More information is available on the City’s web site at www.sandiego.gov.

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