Milford School District has launched the After the Bell program to help students who may be falling behind or just need additional help to learn a difficult subject. The program is held every Tuesday and Thursday from 3 to 4 PM in all school cafeterias.
“Do you need to make up a test or need extra help?” Trish Gerken, Public Information Officer for the district said. “After the Bell is for you! During After the Bell teachers are available to help complete assignments or give you time to work on a needed project.”
After the Bell began October 6 and is designed to help students grow and succeed. The program provides extra support with schoolwork; allows them to ask questions they may not be comfortable asking in class and get extra assistance from teachers. It is also designed for students who missed a test or who need to complete missing assignments.
“After the Bell can help students stay on track,” Gerken said.
After school programs like After the Bell deliver measurable improvements in student academics, school attendance, behavior and long-term adult outcomes. Statistics show that almost 60 percent of participating students see improvements in reading and math grades. For elementary math scores alone, the increase is over 20 percent.
After school programs also offer homework support with about 68 percent of students reporting better homework completion and more active classroom participation. Regular participants also experience lower dropout rates at about nine percent compared to 16 percent for non-participants. Students who take advantage of programs like After the Bell are also more likely to seek higher education.
Absenteeism is also impacted by programs like After the Bell. Research shows that chronic absenteeism can be reduced by as much as 49 percent while 70 percent of parents whose child attends an after-school program report their child’s attitude about school improved. After school programs also help students develop higher levels of self-confidence, self-esteem and positive school bonding.
Programs like After the Bell can also help deter delinquent behaviors, substance use and behavioral problems as it keeps children busy during high-risk afternoon hours.
A 26-year study by Dr. Deborah Vandell found that adults who took advantage of after school programs became stronger learners and leaders as well. The study found that for every $1 invested in after school programs, there was a $10.32 return in societal and economic value.
To learn more about the After the Bell program, contact your child’s school or visit the district website.
