Participation in afterschool programs by American children is declining. The trend is being noticed in rural areas as well as urban.
A study done by Edge Research for the Afterschool Alliance finds cost and transportation are key barriers preventing many parents in rural communities from program participation. In 2014, 13% of rural kids were involved but that number dropped to 11% last year. Executive Director for the Afterschool Alliance Jodi Grant says public funding for the projects and activities has not kept pace with demand.
She thinks increasing access to both afterschool and summer learning must be an urgent priority for lawmakers.
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