CITY OF SAN
"6 to 6" EXTENDED SCHOOL DAY PROGRAM
1. Briefly describe the structure of the program.
The "6 to 6" Extended School Day Program is a joint effort of the City of San Diego and San Diego Unified School District, to open schools the hours that most parents work. The "6 to 6" program provides a safe place for children to go to play and learn new skills in academic enrichment, homework assistance, arts, crafts, sports and recreation.
2. When was the program created and why?
The "6 to 6" Extended School Day Program was created as part of Mayor Susan Goldingís Safe Schools Task Force. It was recognized that children were at greatest risk for crime and violence in the afternoon and that our community had a lot of latch-key children who went home alone. The program began on August 31, 1998 to serve 31 schools in San Diego Unified School District.
3. How do you measure the programís effectiveness?
The goal is to increase the safety of children before and after school, to improve academic achievement and school attendance. The programís effectiveness will be measured by the San Diego Unified School Districtís comparison of test scores and attendance measurements before and after the program was initiated.
4. How is the program financed?
The "6 to 6" program is funded $1 million through city-wide general funds and $750,000 through conversion of Park and Recreation funds. It is free to families.
5. How is the community involved in the programHow has the community responded to the program?
Collaborations are being formed with community groups like the Rolling Readers, AmeriCorp Volunteers, 4-H and the Neighborhood Arts Program. The community has responded very favorably to the "6 to 6" program. Programs were full the first week of school.
6. What are the major lessons learned from this program?
Work together in shared governance, with the City and School District.
7. Contact person:
The United States Conference of Mayors
J. Thomas Cochran, Executive Director
Copyright © 1999, US Conference of Mayors, All rights reserved.