Pennsylvania Afterschool Programs

Mindi the fox with a ponytail, standing in front of a Pennsylvania map featuring icons for the Liberty Bell, books, family, a
Mindi the fox with a ponytail, standing in front of a Pennsylvania map featuring icons for the Liberty Bell, books, family, a

In Pennsylvania, afterschool and out-of-school time (OST) programs serve a significant portion of the student population. Approximately 32,247 students participate in 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) programs, representing about 1.9% of the state's public school students. Despite this reach, there remains a substantial unmet demand, with over 550,000 children unsupervised after school and more than 600,000 expressing interest in enrolling in such programs if available.

These programs focus on providing academic support, promoting equity, offering enrichment activities, fostering social-emotional learning (SEL), and preparing students for college and careers. They are particularly vital for high-need and economically disadvantaged students, offering services that complement regular school curricula and support holistic development.

Funding for these programs comes from both federal and state sources. The 21st CCLC initiative is authorized under Title IV, Part B of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) of 2015. Additionally, Pennsylvania has invested $11.5 million through the Building Opportunity through Out-of-School Time (BOOST) program to expand access to quality OST programs across the state.

Pennsylvania's diverse geography, including rural areas and tribal communities, presents unique challenges in providing equitable access to OST programs. The Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/Youth Development Network (PSAYDN) plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts, advocating for policy support, and ensuring that programs meet the varied needs of communities throughout the state.

Pennsylvania Afterschool Impact

Afterschool and OST programs in Pennsylvania have demonstrated positive outcomes in various domains. They contribute to improved academic performance, increased school attendance, enhanced social-emotional skills, and better preparation for post-secondary education and careers. These programs are instrumental in supporting students' overall development and success.

📚 Academic Outcomes

Students engaged in afterschool programs show gains in reading and math proficiency. These programs provide tutoring and homework assistance, leading to better classroom participation and academic achievement.

🏫 Attendance & Engagement

Participation in OST programs correlates with improved school-day attendance and reduced absenteeism. Students become more engaged and motivated, exhibiting positive behaviors and attitudes toward learning.

🧠 Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Afterschool programs incorporate SEL frameworks and trauma-informed practices, helping students develop emotional regulation, resilience, and strong peer relationships. These skills are essential for personal growth and academic success.

🎓 College & Career Readiness

Programs offer leadership development, mentoring, and exposure to college and career pathways. They align with workforce readiness initiatives, providing students with the tools and experiences needed for future success.

Sources: Pennsylvania Department of Education and PSAYDN

Metro

Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Harrisburg operate large OST ecosystems through school districts, youth nonprofits, libraries, and networks like PSAYDN. OST is often embedded within community schools.

Rural

Rural providers include schools, libraries, and local extension offices. Transportation and broadband access are ongoing barriers addressed through partnerships and hybrid programming.

Federal Funding

The Pennsylvania Department of Education administers 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) funding, which supports free OST programming at high-need schools across the state.

State Funding

Pennsylvania has invested in OST through state initiatives like the PAsmart workforce grant program and COVID recovery funding. However, there is no permanent line item for afterschool funding.

All Funding Sources

  • 21st CCLC (federal)
  • PAsmart and ESSER funding
  • Local foundations and district support
  • Corporate sponsors and United Way
  • Sliding scale family fees

Family Involvement

Ask your school, library, or community center about available OST options. Most programs are free or low cost and include snacks, homework help, and enrichment.

Partner Involvement

Apply through PDE for 21st CCLC or partner with grantees. The Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/Youth Development Network (PSAYDN) offers advocacy and training support.

Pennsylvania Afterschool Resources

Related Pennsylvania MindWorks Pages

See the following MindWorks pages for information about states, organizations, or products that may be relevant to Pennsylvania.

States

  • District of Columbia – Major city overlap (e.g., Philly and DC); similar OST challenges and grant structures.
  • New York – Strong regional partner with similar urban OST needs and nonprofit-driven infrastructure.
  • New Jersey – Shares densely populated OST ecosystems and statewide quality improvement efforts.
  • Maryland – Common regional priorities in OST equity, access, and blended public/private partnerships.
  • Ohio – Midwestern neighbor with shared funding challenges and interest in cross-sector OST collaboration.
  • Illinois – Urban-rural mix with similar OST implementation models and funding strategies.

Organizations

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) – Operates extensively across Pennsylvania, with school-linked mentoring in OST hours.
  • United Way – Local chapters fund OST initiatives in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and rural communities.
  • Afterschool Alliance – Frequently features Pennsylvania programs in national advocacy and Lights On Afterschool campaigns.