Testimony of Kimberly Perry: Universal OST Will Expand Vital Opportunities for Underserved Students

Good morning, Chairman Mendelson and members of the Committee of the Whole. I am Kimberly Perry, Executive Director of DC Action, the District’s child and youth advocacy organization using the power of research, data and collective action advocacy to break down barriers that stand in the way of all kids reaching their full potential. We are also the home of the DC Out-of-School Time Coalition. I’m here today to testify in support of the Universal Out-of-School-Time Amendment Act of 2023, because we believe all District youth deserve access to safe and enriching opportunities to learn and grow beyond the classroom.

As you will hear today from students and program providers, enrollment in high-quality out-of-school-time programs gives students something to look forward to–a sense of joy, direction, and personal passion that help them see real possibilities for their future. This propels our youth toward better school attendance and perseverance in their academics, and leads young people down productive pathways to career readiness. We continue to hear about the long term mental health challenges young people are experiencing, so it’s important to remember that out-of-school time programs also reinforce social-emotional development and positive mental well-being. 

While the benefits of out-of-school-time programs are significant, unfortunately, availability of program slots, cost, transportation, and geographic accessibility of programs prohibit participation for too many. According to the DC Policy Center’s analysis, more than 53,000 students are missing out on vital opportunities for growth and development during the school year, and 57,000 don’t have access to summer programs.

This bill builds on the good work of the OST Office and the OST Commission and creates a blueprint for equitably achieving universal access to out-of-school-time opportunities.  Specifically, it alleviates many of the common challenges direct service providers face when applying for or receiving public funding. This act empowers the OST Office to coordinate the expansion of programming. As you know, there are many District agencies that run or fund youth development programs throughout the year. The Learn24 Office should play a leading role in interagency coordination to ensure collective public investments are meaningfully expanding access to seats in every neighborhood. 

This legislation also empowers the OST Office to better support providers in serving students with disabilities and special needs, students who are learning English, and students who may have more acute learning or behavioral health challenges due to experiences of poverty or homelessness or involvement with the child welfare or juvenile justice systems.

By passing a law to guarantee universal access, the DC Council would make it clear that the District understands and prioritizes the significant role that OST plays in youth development. Just as we guarantee the right to education from preschool through high school, we must guarantee students are fully supported beyond the classroom. 

The Universal Out of School Time Amendment Act is needed now to ensure all our students have the support and resources they need to grow up safe, resilient, powerful, and heard. 

Thank you and I would be happy to answer any questions.