The Avon Grove School District hosted Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid Mumin for a visit highlighting after-school programming at Avon Grove Intermediate School. 

The Oct. 25, event, Lights on After School, is a nationwide effort organized by the U.S. Department of Education’s Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers to bring awareness to the importance of providing accessible, high-quality programs to families who need after-school care. 

Dr. Mumin addressed students in the cafeteria, where he emphasized the positive impact of the program and reminded the students how wonderful it is to have after-school activities that are both educational and fun. The students enjoyed their after-school snacks and enthusiastically engaged with Mumin as he asked them about their hopes for the future.

Administrators then provided the visitors with a tour of the various activities that are regularly offered through the program, including games in the gymnasium, creating art with robotics, and making slime in a science lesson. Mumin had the opportunity to participate in the activities and learn about the partnership between the local agencies that often visit or provide services, such as the Chester County Food Bank and the Avondale Fire Company.  

The program, operated in a partnership between the school district, the Chester County Intermediate Unit and the Century Community Learning Centers, is free for eligible families and offers student enrichment opportunities while also supporting families who need assistance during non-school hours. 

Kim Hall, principal at Avon Grove Intermediate School, shared her appreciation for the program. “It’s a wonderful partnership and program,” she said. “The staff do an incredible job of making each day exciting and unique for the students.”