Sacramento considers closing after-school programs
City says programs face declining enrollment, rising costs
The Sacramento City Council will vote next Tuesday on a plan to close four of the city's 19 after-school program sites.
The city's Parks and Recreation Department, which runs the 4th R program, said it is facing a $1.5 million budget deficit next year.
Parents, who learned of the planned closures this week, said they were struggling to find an alternative.
The Sacramento City School District said about 200 students would be affected.
"Oh my Lord! What am I going to do with my kids?" said Julie Ketchel.
Parks and Recreations Director Jim Combs said the 4th R program has been hurt by declining enrollment as more families have chosen a cheaper, state-funded alternative.
The sites slated for closure are located at Golden Empire Elementary School, Wenzel Elementary School, Bancroft Elementary School and Erlewine Elementary School.
Emma Nunez, who has worked at the Bancroft site for five years, said she has watched enrollment drop from more than 80 students to about 50.
Combs said the program was also facing rising labor costs because union contracts require it to rely mainly on full-time workers with benefits.
He said the new federal health care law is also driving up costs.
Combs said the four sites were chosen because they have the biggest budget gaps.
However, some parents said they are bothered by the fact that three of the four sites are located in or near District 6, which currently does not have a member on the City Council.
"Perhaps the unrepresented district is a reason we're getting shut down here," said Steve Irion, whose twin sons attend the Bancroft program.
Eric Guerra, who was elected this week to represent District 6, said the closure vote should be delayed until after he is sworn into office later this month.
"It's inappropriate that the city make a decision that's going to affect constituents without the voice of that district at the table," said Guerra.
Parents at the Bancroft site have started a petition and children have been drawing posters asking the City Council to vote against the closures.
Combs said that in order to save the sites, the City Council would have to move funds from other parts of the budget.
The city is also considering withdrawing its participation in the START after-school program, unless the school district provides more money for administration.
Gabe Ross, a district spokesman, said the START program is not likely to close because it is funded by the state.
Ross said if necessary the district could find another agency to administer the START program.Sacramento considers closing after-school programs | Local News - KCRA Home:
