School Budget Cuts Are Gutting Afterschool Programs: Here’s How NAofA Is Stepping Up
School Budget Cuts Are Putting Afterschool Programs at Risk
Across the country, families are bracing for the fallout of massive school budget cuts. From the proposed elimination of the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) to sharp reductions in STEM funding, afterschool and summer programs are on the chopping block, and millions of children will feel the impact.
What’s at Stake in the FY 2026 Federal Budget
The President’s proposed FY 2026 budget calls for the complete defunding of 21st CCLC, the only federal program dedicated to afterschool and summer learning. This would gut services for nearly 1.4 million children, many of whom rely on these programs for safe, structured environments after school. On top of that, the National Science Foundation’s STEM Education Directorate is facing a $200 million cut, while NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement is set to be eliminated altogether.
These programs aren’t just about academics; they support working families, prevent youth crime, and build lifelong habits around physical activity, social-emotional development, and community engagement.
Some States Are Stepping Up, But It’s Not Enough
In California, Governor Newsom has proposed a boost to the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP), a promising step toward keeping enrichment programs alive. But even with increased ELOP funding, access is uneven, especially in under-resourced communities and across states that aren’t following suit.
Communities Already Feeling the Pressure
In places like Denver, San Antonio, Oakland County (Michigan), and Nevada, parents and educators are already feeling the pressure. Many districts in these areas face hard choices between keeping sports programs, arts, or extended learning, and with fewer federal dollars, even ELOP-supported schools may struggle to maintain quality programming.
NAofA: The Local Answer to a National Crisis
At the National Academy of Athletics (NAofA), we’ve always believed that recreational youth sports and afterschool activities shouldn’t be optional; they’re essential. As public programs vanish, we’re stepping up with a model that’s flexible, scalable, and rooted in community values.
“We’re not waiting on Washington to decide what kids deserve. We’re filling the gap with purpose-driven programs that build healthier, happier, and more resilient communities. Every child deserves a safe place to play, grow, and belong, no matter the budget.”—Aaron Locks, NAofA Founder and CEO
Filling the Gaps with Purpose-Driven Programs
Our camps, clinics, and leagues are designed to fill the exact gaps left by budget cuts, providing affordable, high-quality programming that emphasizes fitness, sportsmanship, and life skills. We partner directly with schools, municipalities, and recreation departments to keep kids moving, learning, and growing.
Whether it’s launching new programs in Denver South, expanding in Oakland County, or building partnerships in San Antonio and the Reno/Sparks area, NAofA is here to ensure no child misses out on the benefits of afterschool sports and enrichment, regardless of what happens in Washington.
If you’re a school leader, city official, or parent looking for reliable, empowering afterschool solutions, we’re here to help.
