Congratulations to Metro Kids and 21CCLC program manager Linda Phillips on her selection as an Afterschool Alliance 2024 Afterschool Ambassador. Linda is the only Iowan to be selected, and one of just 15 people honored nationwide. As the AA news release says, Linda is a champion for students in Des Moines Public Schools afterschool programs. Below is the press release from the Afterschool Alliance announcing Linda’s recognition. The Afterschool Alliance announced today that it has selected Linda Phillips, After School Program manager at the 21CCLC and Metro Kids, to serve as a 2024 Afterschool Ambassador. She is one of just 15 leaders in the country chosen for the honor this year. Afterschool Ambassadors continue working with local afterschool programs while serving a one-year Afterschool Ambassador term, working with community leaders and policy makers, organizing events, and in other ways growing support for the afterschool and summer learning programs families rely on. “We are thrilled that Linda Phillips is serving as a 2024 Afterschool Ambassador for the Afterschool Alliance,” said Jodi Grant, Afterschool Alliance executive director. “This is a challenging time for the country’s students and families, and afterschool and summer learning programs are uniquely positioned to help. But there aren’t nearly enough programs to meet the need, and programs are facing significant challenges including funding shortfalls as the pandemic relief tapers off, staff shortages, and more. Now more than ever, we need leaders to spread the word that afterschool programs keep kids safe, inspire them to learn, and give parents peace of mind that their children are safe and supervised after the school day ends. Phillips is exactly the kind of champion we need.” “I am delighted to have the chance to work with the Afterschool Alliance to increase awareness and support for afterschool and summer learning programs this year,” said Phillips. “I’ve seen firsthand the many ways these programs help students and families overcome challenges. That’s especially important now. Many of our students have ground to make up and afterschool programs can help them do that. I’m so proud to be part of the afterschool movement and to be a 2024 Afterschool Ambassador.” Des Moines Public School’s 21CCLC programs served over 1,500 kids at 15 sites in the 2022-2023 school year. Programs meet daily 13 Spotlight
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