Louisiana Afterschool Programs

The MindWorks Fox in front of the state of Louisiana and associated landmarks and icons
The MindWorks Fox in front of the state of Louisiana and associated landmarks and icons

Afterschool and out-of-school time (OST) programs in Louisiana serve approximately 100,000 students annually, providing essential academic and enrichment opportunities across the state. The 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) initiative, funded under Title IV, Part B of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, plays a significant role in this landscape, offering support particularly in high-poverty and low-performing schools. Despite these efforts, a substantial number of children remain without access to afterschool programs, indicating a significant unmet demand.

Louisiana's OST programs focus on academic support, equity, enrichment, social-emotional learning (SEL), and college and career readiness. These programs are especially vital for students in rural and underserved communities, providing access to quality learning experiences and supportive environments. Statewide coordination efforts aim to enhance the quality and accessibility of OST programs across the state.

Louisiana Afterschool Impact

Afterschool programs in Louisiana contribute significantly to student development, offering safe and engaging environments that promote academic success, personal growth, and future readiness. By addressing the needs of underserved populations and fostering community partnerships, these programs play a crucial role in supporting the well-being and achievement of Louisiana's youth.

📚 Academic Outcomes

Participants in Louisiana's 21st CCLC programs have demonstrated improvements in homework completion and class participation, contributing to enhanced academic performance.

🏫 Attendance & Engagement

Afterschool programs have been associated with improved school-day attendance and increased student engagement, fostering a positive connection to learning.

🧠 Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Through SEL frameworks and supportive practices, Louisiana's OST programs help students develop emotional regulation, resilience, and strong peer relationships.

🎓 College & Career Readiness

Initiatives within afterschool programs provide students with exposure to college and career pathways, including leadership development and mentoring opportunities.

Sources: Afterschool Alliance and Louisiana Department of Education

Metro

New Orleans has a dense OST ecosystem led by NOLA-PS, YouthShift, and numerous community partners. Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and Shreveport have growing citywide youth networks. Afterschool is often school-based or delivered through nonprofits and rec centers.

Rural

Rural programs often operate through 4-H, libraries, or school sites with shared staff. The Louisiana Center for Afterschool Learning (LACAL) supports providers with quality tools, grant navigation, and professional development.

Federal Funding

The Louisiana Department of Education administers 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) grants to support academic enrichment, tutoring, and SEL in Title I schools across the state.

State Funding

While Louisiana lacks a recurring OST budget line, state agencies like the Department of Children and Family Services and Office of Juvenile Justice fund youth-serving initiatives. Some local governments (e.g., New Orleans) provide supplemental OST investment.

All Funding Sources

  • 21st CCLC (federal): administered by LDOE
  • Local school district or municipal youth funds
  • DCFS and juvenile justice grants
  • Foundations: Blue Cross Louisiana Foundation, Baptist Community Ministries
  • Parent fees (limited use in high-poverty areas)

Family Involvement

Ask your school about afterschool options. Many programs are free for Title I students. Libraries, rec centers, and churches also offer programming.

Partner Involvement

Partner with LDOE or local districts to provide OST services. Join LACAL for statewide OST coordination, advocacy, and training.

Louisiana Afterschool Resources

Related Louisiana MindWorks Pages

See the following MindWorks pages for information from similar or neighboring states and organizations that may be relevant to Louisiana.

States

  • Texas – Neighboring state with robust OST networks and similar strategies for high-poverty communities.
  • Mississippi – Shares cultural and funding dynamics around OST access and academic support.
  • Arkansas – Regional peer with similar rural OST delivery models and state-level coordination.
  • Georgia – Offers comparable OST quality frameworks and cross-sector enrichment partnerships.
  • Florida – National OST leader with initiatives that provide scalable models for southern states like Louisiana.

Organizations

  • Boys & Girls Clubs – Major OST provider across Louisiana, especially in urban and under-resourced areas.
  • 4-H – LSU AgCenter coordinates OST across rural parishes with STEM and agriculture learning models.
  • United Way – Funds OST programs statewide with a focus on academic support and community development.