1 week Ago
149,000 hours. That’s how much time Tulsa’s youth spent in expanded learning programs last semester. In just one semester, 5,521 youth participated in an average of 27 hours of before- and after-school programming — hours filled with exploration, enrichment, and connection, thanks to Tulsa’s dedicated after-school professionals who are part of our city’s broader expanded learning community.
These professionals do far more than provide supervision between 2 p.m. and 6 p.
m. — they create spaces where students heal, grow and thrive. One after-school professional at Eugene Field Elementary shared how a student who recently experienced a family loss found comfort and stability in their club.
“Connection brings healing,” she said, describing how these after-school hours have transformed him. At Springdale Elementary, another after-school leader described how these programs give students “incentive opportunities and encouragement for learning and performing in school.” People are also reading.
.. Bill addressing tribal toll collections falls in House committee; governor reacts State ends contracts for three large mental health services providers in Tulsa County Ex-police officer changes part of story about chase that killed motorcyclist in Tulsa Mason’s Monday Mailbag: What grade did I give OU football’s offseason so far? Berry Tramel: Why Jimmy Gasso is coaching softball at Mid-America Christian Update: Motorcyclist in critical condition after crash with school bus, Tulsa police say Cry Baby Hill roadside attraction on hold, along with hotel project, Route 66 experience Here's how the sold-out Red Dirt concert event The Boys From Oklahoma became a reality Berry Tramel: Mike Gundy predicts soon-coming super conference of 32 teams Nine measles cases now confirmed in Oklahoma Police probe alleged child sex abuse, coverup at ‘cult’ church following news investigation 5 reasons to believe OU football’s offensive line will be much improved in 2025 Bill Haisten: Remembering the immense talent and personality of Mike Bilbow Epic concert series in Stillwater launches with Cross Canadian Ragweed reunion Opponents of religious charter school: St.
Isidore poses threat to all public charters Every day, across Tulsa, after-school professionals take on the roles of educators, mentors, coaches and caregivers. They are a highly skilled, talented and dedicated workforce ensuring their programs are high-quality, engaging and meaningful for the youth they serve. But their impact extends beyond the students they work with directly.
A thriving after-school workforce strengthens Tulsa’s economy, increases workplace productivity and builds a safer, more vibrant city. Expanded learning programs saved Tulsa families $1.8 million in aftercare costs from September to December 2024, based on a childcare hourly rate of $16.
65. When parents don’t have to scramble for childcare or cut work hours short, local businesses benefit from a more stable workforce, employers see fewer disruptions, and Tulsa retains more working professionals. The future of Tulsa is interwoven with the strength of an educational system that provides youth with enriching experiences before, during and after school.
A vibrant Tulsa does not happen without expanded learning programs and the professionals who lead them. Beyond economics, these professionals help shape the next generation of leaders, workers and engaged citizens. During the critical hours between school and the end of the workday, students discover the principles of magnetic levitation, learn how to prepare a garden for spring, practice orchestral compositions, and develop their own podcasts.
They gain skills that set them up for future careers, civic engagement and lifelong learning. A strong and vibrant expanded learning community means a stronger and more vibrant Tulsa — for everyone. I know firsthand the impact after-school programs can have— not just on students, but on families, businesses and entire communities.
That’s why I am proud of the work The Opp Project is doing to celebrate Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week from April 21–25. Whether you’ve personally benefited from an after-school program or simply believe in a thriving Tulsa, I invite you to join us in celebrating and supporting these professionals. Visit The Opp Project’s website to get involved, show your gratitude, take action and pledge your support.
Because when we invest in after-school professionals, we invest in Tulsa’s future..
