School’s Out is working around the clock at the state and federal level to advocate for funding and supports for the youth development and child care fields. And as discussed in our weekly webinars, now is a great time to reach out to your local school districts regarding partnerships for programming this summer.
There is a lot happening right now and we are busier than ever working – virtually – to advocate for the field.
Passage of the federal CARES Act, which includes $57m for child care, over $50m for education supports at the Governor's discretion, and over $220m in direct supports to school districts in Washington state
School-Age Child Care emergency licensing exceptions
Coordinated strategy to support youth development providers and fight cuts to critical funding
This state legislative session is shaping up to be a lively one. SOWA will be working to secure funding for the Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) Quality Initiative once again and we are working with partners to educate legislators about the youth development field (including mentoring and case management) as well as the impact ELOs play in career exploration and awareness.
The Washington ELO Network supports and promotes policies that increase access to high-quality expanded learning opportunities for youth in Washington. Together, ELO providers, K12 and school-age child care stakeholders, families, and youth can come together to help improve the access to and quality of ELOs.
You can get involved! You do not have to be an expert in advocacy or policy, your programmatic knowledge and work with children and youth qualifies you, so join us!