The Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out of School Time held its first public hearing at Springfield Technical Community College on Tuesday, April 10.
Led by Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Marie St. Fleur, 12 other Commission members heard testimony from nearly 30 people over a four hour period. There was riveting testimony especially from older youth who talked about the role afterschool programs play in keeping them safe from drugs and gun violence. In all approximately 50 people attended the hearing.
Kudos to Paula Thayer, Bill Randolph, Karen Gillette and Tova Neugut who all came and provided powerful testimony about the importance and impact of their 21st CCLC efforts. Karen also brought a parent and a group of young girls to testify. Their comments were well received by the Special Commission members.
The public hearing was covered by the Springfield Republican and a brief clip about the hearing appeared on Channel 40. Additionally the hearing was taped and it will be submitted it to air on Springfield's Public Access TV Channel.
In addition to the Co-Chairs, the following Commission members and their representatives attended the hearing:
Erin Craft - Department of Early Education and Care
Donna Traynham - Department of Education
Ben Lummis - Massachusetts 2020
Cathy O'Connor - Department of Public Health
Gerry Ruane - Massachusetts Teachers Association
Debbie Kneeland - MADCA
Mike Cahill - YMCA's of Massachusetts
Berna Mann - PACE
Gwynn Hughes - Massachusetts Afterschool Partnership
Rick Metters - Massachusetts Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs
Susan O'Connor - WestMOST Network
Sharon Scott-Chandler - ABCD Boston
The next public hearings are scheduled for Tuesday, May 1, 2007 in Pittsfield from 5 PM - 8 PM and for Tuesday, May 8, 2007 in Central Massachusetts at locations to be announced
Monday, April 16, 2007
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