WHEREAS, the health, safety, and education of Alaska’s children is fundamental to the happiness, success, and well-being of Alaska’s families and communities; and

WHEREAS, when offered an array of opportunities that fit their specific educational needs, Alaska’s youth can flourish and have enriched academic experiences; and

WHEREAS, quality afterschool programs provide safe, challenging, and engaging learning experiences that help youth develop social, emotional, physical, and academic skills; and

WHEREAS, afterschool programs help build stronger communities, support working families, advance child welfare, increase youth resilience, and prevent substance abuse; and

WHEREAS, Alaska ranks among the top 10 states for afterschool programming, improving its national standing from 46th in 2009 to 4th in 2020 ; and

WHEREAS, on October 24, 2024, communities across the State and Nation will celebrate the 25th annual Lights On After School and recognize the importance of quality afterschool programs in children, families, and our nation; and

WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is committed to investing in the health and safety of our youth by providing expanded educational opportunities to help them learn and grow, and prepare young people to compete in the global economy.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim October 24, 2024 as:

Lights On Afterschool Day

in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to support innovative and educational afterschool programs and activities in their communities, and to consider volunteering their time and skills to ensure the lights stay on and the doors stay open for children after school.

Dated: October 24, 2024