Weekly Media Roundup: April 1, 2026

The Workforce Problem We’re Not Talking About, Keene Sentinel (New Hampshire)

In a recent guest column for the Keene Sentinel, New Hampshire Afterschool Network Executive Committee Chair Stephanie Latini argues that throughout the Monadnock region, employers struggle to fill jobs due to the gap in support systems that make work possible, especially accessible, affordable afterschool care. When families lack coverage after school, parents are forced to cut hours or leave jobs. The Monadnock Region Afterschool Partnership Program is addressing this issue, along with staffing shortages in afterschool programs, by connecting afterschool programs with high schools, colleges and other community partners to help them recruit and retain qualified staff. “If we want to strengthen our workforce, we have to look beyond job openings and hiring strategies,” Latini writes. “Until we begin to recognize afterschool and child care as part of the infrastructure that makes work possible, we may continue to approach the issue from the wrong angle and miss opportunities to build more sustainable solutions.”

Students Rally at Capitol Urging Expansion of Afterschool Programs, ABC 10 (California)

Last week, hundreds of teens gathered at the California State Capitol to urge their elected leaders to expand funding for afterschool programs that serve middle and high school students. State lawmakers are currently considering a bill that would increase access to mentorship and out-of-school time activities for teens, as most funding currently targets younger students. “Middle school students need programs just as much, especially because they’re struggling with mental health issues, they’re feeling isolated, they’re disconnected with technology, and so they’ve asked us for real experiences and real mentorship,” one advocate told ABC 10.

Red Hot Chili Peppers' Chad Smith Starts Music Program in Milwaukee, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Wisconsin)

Students in afterschool programs at four Milwaukee nonprofits now have access to musical instruments and qualified music instructors thanks to funding from Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith’s new After-School Music Program (AMP) initiative. AMP rewards participating students with concert tickets, performance opportunities, and more. Smith told the Milwaukee Journal he was inspired to expand access to music education in underserved communities because similar opportunities he had as a student shaped his life and career. “If I didn't have those outlets, I wouldn't have graduated from high school,” Smith said.

Interfaith’s SAVE Summer Program Fights Summer Learning Loss, KDAF (Texas)

Each year, more than 100 students whose families are experiencing housing insecurity take part in the SAVE Summer program in North Texas, designed to keep them engaged and learning while school is out. Built around the four SAVE pillars -- Socialization, Academic Enhancement, Volunteerism and Exploration – the program offers fun activities that build students’ confidence and social skills. “Interfaith Family Services has operated these programs for more than a decade. The organization specifically targets its services toward children who are vulnerable to homelessness. By providing a camp experience, the group aims to ensure these students are prepared for success in the upcoming school year,” KDAF reports.