The Senate officially supports Lights On Afterschool , a national celebration scheduled for October 23, 2025, which aims to highlight the critical importance of after-school programs. These high-quality programs offer safe, challenging, and engaging learning experiences that help children develop social, emotional, physical, cultural, and academic skills, including in STEM fields. After-school programs complement the regular school day and provide crucial support for working families by ensuring children are safe and productive during parents' work hours. They also engage families, schools, and diverse community partners, thereby strengthening communities by integrating schools with the larger community.