HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaii lawmakers are looking to fund an educational program aimed at getting students, primarily those who come from low-income families, more involved in after-school activities.
The REACH pilot program launched in more than a dozen Hawaii schools in 2014. Legislators are now looking to implement the program permanently with the support of general funds, Hawaii News Now reported (http://bit.ly/23U94Hz).
The REACH program, which stands for resources for enrichment, athletics, culture and health, is designed to provide middle school-age students with a place to be engaged and active once school lets out for the day.
Principal Reid Kuba of Honolulu’s Jarrett Middle School said he has already seen the positive effects the program has had on his students.
“This is where they’re developing the most, their brains are developing, their body is developing, they’re learning how to control their emotions and work with each other, so it’s crucial,” he said.
Several bills making their way through the state Legislature would make the program permanent. One funding proposal would require parents to pay a fee for the program, while others rely on general fund money.
But Sen. Sam Slom said those who oppose funding the after-school program worry about the effect it will have in the classroom.
“The parents and taxpayers that I talk to, they’re concerned that we’re taking more resources out of the classroom and loading them on before school, after school,” said state Sen. Sam Slom.