Good morning, Chairman Mendelson and members of the Committee of the Whole. Thank you for the opportunity to address the Council today. My name is Caroline Smith, and I am a Master of Social Work candidate at Catholic University and an intern at DC Action. I have also worked and volunteered at several out-of-school-time programs in Baltimore, MD, Camden, NJ, and South Bend, IN. I am testifying today in support of the Universal Out of School Time Amendment Act of 2023 because I have seen firsthand the profound social, emotional, and mental health benefits that these programs provide for young people.
First, I want to emphasize the critical importance of social-emotional learning (SEL). SEL teaches youth how to manage emotions, set goals, build relationships, and make responsible decisions. These are not just “soft skills” – they are essential building blocks for success in school, in the workforce, and in life. SEL helps young people build resilience, develop empathy, and learn how to collaborate and overcome challenges. These are the skills that equip youth to navigate adversity, engage meaningfully in their communities, and become productive adults.
While schools play an important role in social emotional development, out-of-school-time programs are uniquely positioned to foster SEL in ways schools often cannot. OST programs provide a low-pressure environment where youth can engage in new activities without the fear of failure or judgment. This fosters personal growth, resilience, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging – all important elements of youth development. Additionally, OST programs offer lower staff-to-student ratios than schools, which enables adult mentors to provide individual attention to each child. With this personalized support, young people can develop the self-regulation and empathy they need to form positive relationships, both with peers and adults.
Research shows that high-quality, evidence-based afterschool programs that promote social and emotional development result in a range of positive effects. The benefits of SEL for youth extend well beyond the classroom, with improved self-confidence, increased positive social behavior, and reduced aggression. Youth with strong SEL skills are more likely to secure stable, full-time employment and are less likely to be involved with the justice system.
In conclusion, OST programs help youth develop the skills they need to succeed in all areas of life. As an aspiring social worker in the District, I know we have an acute shortage of behavioral health professionals to work with our youth. OST programs help us fill the gap in tending to the social, emotional, and behavioral wellbeing of our young people and ensuring they are set up for a bright and successful future. I urge you to swiftly pass and fund the Universal Out-of-School Time Amendment Act in the coming Council Period. Thank you for your time and consideration.