Lights on Afterschool

 Several hundred children, parents, business and community leaders will join on Thursday, October 22, 2009 at a Lights on Afterschool Celebration – one of 7,500 such events across the nation. The events emphasize the importance of keeping the lights on and the doors open for afterschool programs. Tight budgets are endangering afterschool programs here in Edinburg and around the country, forcing many to cut back or even close their doors. 

 Lights on Afterschool activities will be held at all Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV Units including the school sites at E B Guerra Elementary and Cano-Gonzalez Elementary.   Both schools and all Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV units will participate in getting signatures from parents for a petition in support of afterschool programs.  Mayor Richard Garcia, school officials, community leaders, and parents will be invited to these events to offer a forum to discuss the importance of afterschool programs.

On the night of October 22, E B Guerra Elementary will hold an “AR Reading Night” at their campus to offer students and parents the opportunity to explore through and bond over reading.  Parents will read to their children and visit the library while their children complete the AR test.  This will also allow them to discuss the importance of afterschool programs.

Cano-Gonzalez Elementary will host a Dance Recital featuring their school dancers: The Ocelot Cheerleaders, The Tappers and The Jazzers.  Each dance troupe will perform and the Ocelot Choir will be singing as well. 

All other Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV after school sites will be hosting an open house.  All community members are welcomed to drop by and see the programs and kids in action.