High-quality afterschool and summer learning programs are more than just a place to go after school—they’re essential support for students, families, and schools. But a recent federal budget proposal could eliminate the dedicated funding that keeps these programs running.
In this post, we’ll break down:
- What’s happening with the FY26 federal budget
- Why FY26 Afterschool & Summer Learning Funding Matters
- How HPA Is Responding
- What You Can Do to Help
What’s Happening with FY26 Afterschool Funding
On May 30, the Administration released its FY2026 federal budget proposal. The budget includes a significant change: it eliminates dedicated funding for 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)—the only federal program specifically supporting afterschool and summer learning for students in need.
Instead, the budget proposes folding this funding into a broader block grant, which would no longer guarantee resources for these essential programs.
What This Means
If the proposed FY26 budget eliminates dedicated funding for 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC), the consequences will be widespread and deeply felt:
- 1.4 million students nationwide could lose access to the afterschool and summer programs they rely on.
- More than 10,000 programs that provide safe, structured environments outside of school hours may be forced to close.
- California communities would experience major disruptions in expanded learning services—particularly in schools that serve low-income families, English learners, and foster youth.
- Working families would lose vital support, leaving them without affordable care and enrichment options during out-of-school hours.
This isn’t just about funding—it’s about protecting the future of programs that help children stay safe, inspired, and on track for success.
Why FY26 Afterschool & Summer Learning Funding Matters
Continued federal funding for 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) is essential to keeping expanded learning programs accessible to students and families across the country. Without this investment, millions of children could lose critical opportunities to learn, grow, and stay safe beyond the school day. Here’s why this funding is so important:
It Drives Academic Success
Afterschool and summer programs are proven to boost attendance, improve academic performance, and support social-emotional development. These programs provide hands-on enrichment that keeps students engaged and helps them build lifelong skills.
It Supports Working Families
Reliable before- and after-school care gives parents the flexibility to work full-time hours while knowing their children are in safe, structured environments. This is especially critical for low-income and underserved communities with fewer child care options.
It Builds a Stronger Education Workforce
Many of these programs are staffed by educators, youth workers, and AmeriCorps members who gain valuable experience working with students. Sustained funding helps build career pathways in education and youth development—supporting both kids and the workforce that serves them.
How HPA Is Responding
HPA Pathways partners with school districts across California to deliver high-quality afterschool and summer programs that support the whole child. Our programs focus on:
- Movement-based learning
- Academic enrichment
- Social-emotional development
- Mentorship and teamwork
These opportunities aren’t just enrichment—they are lifelines for students and families. The proposed FY26 federal budget puts these programs at risk by eliminating dedicated 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) funding.
In response, HPA is joining a national movement to raise awareness and protect this vital funding. We’re standing with families, educators, and communities to keep programs open for the students who need them most.
What You Can Do to Help
We’ve made it easy to speak up. In just a few clicks, you can send a message directly to your representatives in Congress urging them to protect funding for afterschool and summer programs. Take action now.
Final Thoughts
Cutting federal funding for afterschool and summer learning programs would reverse years of progress—impacting students’ academic growth, working families’ stability, and the future of youth development professionals.
Your voice matters. Let’s make sure Congress hears it.
Together, we can protect expanded learning for the students who need it most.
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