It’s time to connect with lawmakers!

Michigan’s students, families and communities need your voice. We encourage Out-of-School Time (OST) practitioners to call and email their legislator.

It’s time to tell them:

  • Extended learning time is essential to meet the needs of youth and families. Right now three-quarters of a million Michigan students lack access to the afterschool and summer programming they need.

  • Roughly half of students who participate in local OST partnerships are able to boost their own math and reading grades. Nearly 70 percent improve their homework completion and classroom participation efforts.

  • Nearly 90 percent of working parents say the care provided by community-based after-school and summer programs have helped them keep their jobs.

  • For FY2026, we are requesting $100M to expand out-of-school time learning opportunities for Michigan youth.

For programs interested in inviting a legislator to visit your afterschool or summer learning organization during programming, check out our Tips to Conducting a Legislative Visit.

Afterschool Is a Game Changer

Promoting Healthy Futures

Afterschool, summer learning, and other out-of-school time programs play an important role in supporting young people’s safety, well-being, and mental health, and are all the more critical today.

Supporting Working Families

Afterschool, summer learning, and other out-of-school time programs provide critical support to Michigan families, businesses, and our economy.They ensure parents and caregivers have quality child care options when schools are closed so they can work without worry.

Accelerating Learning and Literacy

Afterschool, summer learning, and other out-of-school time programs are an essential part of our education system. These programs complement what kids learn at school and offer enriching activities that get students excited about learning, help them do better in school, and engage them in creative hands-on projects.

Strengthening Our Future Workforce

Afterschool and summer learning is a smart investment in Michigan’s economy and future generations. Programs engage young people in enriching learning experiences, give them opportunities to explore careers, expose them to growing industries, and help them realize their full potential.