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H8491
2026 -- H 8491
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LC006383
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STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY
JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026
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H O U S E R E S O L U T I O N
RECOGNIZING APRIL 2026 AS "OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME MONTH" IN THE STATE OF
RHODE ISLAND
Introduced By:
Representatives Shallcross Smith, Shekarchi, Blazejewski, Chippendale,
Ajello, Fogarty, Handy, Kislak, Bennett, and Fellela
Date Introduced:
April 30, 2026
Referred To:
House read and passed
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WHEREAS, Out-of-school time programs, including afterschool and summer learning
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programs, provide safe, supportive, and enriching environments for children and youth during
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non-school hours; and
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WHEREAS, Such programs play a critical role in supporting the academic, social, and
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emotional development of young people, helping them build essential life skills, improve school
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engagement, and explore new interests and career pathways; and
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WHEREAS, Out-of-school time programs are especially vital in supporting youth mental
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health and overall well-being, providing structured environments where young people can
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develop positive relationships, experience a sense of belonging, and build resilience through
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meaningful engagement with peers and trusted adults; and
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WHEREAS, Research demonstrates that high-quality out-of-school time programs
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contribute to improved student outcomes, reduced risk behaviors, and stronger communities; and
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WHEREAS, In Rhode Island, the demand for out-of-school time programming continues
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to exceed available resources, highlighting the importance of continued investment and support to
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ensure access for all youth; and
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WHEREAS, Organizations such as the Rhode Island Afterschool Network and the
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National Afterschool Association work to strengthen the out-of-school time workforce, promote
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program quality, and advocate for policies that expand opportunities for children and families;
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and
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WHEREAS, April 20–24, 2026, is recognized as Afterschool Professionals Appreciation
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Week, a time to honor the dedicated individuals who serve as educators, mentors, and role models
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in out-of-school time programs, whose commitment supports the well-being and success of youth
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and families; and
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WHEREAS, These professionals are essential to the functioning of working families and
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the broader economy, providing reliable care and meaningful learning experiences outside the
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traditional school day; and
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WHEREAS, Declaring April as "Out-of-School Time Month" provides an opportunity to
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raise awareness of the importance of these programs, celebrate their impact, and encourage
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continued collaboration among educators, policymakers, and community organizations; now,
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therefore be it
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RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby
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recognizes April 2026 as "Out-of-School Time Month" and celebrates the positive impact of out-
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of-school time programs on the youth of our State; and be it further
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RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to
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transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to Michael Dunican, Statewide Director of the
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Rhode Island Afterschool Network and the National Afterschool Association.
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LC006383
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