Governor Jeff Landry Declares October 23 Lights On Afterschool Day in Louisiana

The Children's Coalition for Northeast Louisiana (CCNELA), in partnership with the Louisiana Center for Afterschool Learning (LACAL), today announced that Governor Jeff Landry has officially declared October 23 as Lights On Afterschool Day in Louisiana. This declaration coincides with the 26th annual nationwide celebration, joining over a million champions in raising awareness for the vital role afterschool programs play in student success and community support. 

The annual designation was celebrated locally with a massive community event that served as a kickoff to the national day. 

Community Celebration Highlights: CCNELA and LACAL hosted a “Lights On Afterschool Day” celebration on Tuesday, October 21, at the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo. The event saw an impressive turnout of over 750 students currently enrolled in Monroe City Schools' 21st Century Afterschool Programs. 

A special presentation ended the celebration with featured official proclamations recognizing the importance of afterschool, received from: 

Deidra Adair, Executive Director for the Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana, emphasized the impact of these programs: "The declaration by Governor Landry underscores the state’s commitment to our children’s future. We are thrilled to bring the community together and receive this powerful recognition from the State of Louisiana. Afterschool programs are not just childcare; they are essential platforms that inspire learning, improve academic performance, and help our children build the confidence and skills they need for a bright future." 

Andrew Ganucheau, from the Louisiana Center for Afterschool Learning (LACAL), added: "Lights On Afterschool, a nationwide celebration recognizes the significance of afterschool programs in supporting Louisiana's working families. Through strong partnerships like the one we share with Children's Coalition for Northeast Louisiana, we are able to leverage this vital state support to work toward the ultimate goal: ensuring every family in Louisiana has access to the high-quality, impactful afterschool programs their children need to succeed. Throughout the state, Louisiana Landmarks will be shining blue, demonstrating that the learning continues beyond 3pm. These afterschool programs provide Louisiana's youth with a safe space for academic enrichment and experiential learning opportunities beyond the bell. Please join us in celebrating Lights On Afterschool and the 113 afterschool programs that support Louisiana's working families." 

"Afterschool programs are more than just safe spaces for young people after the school day ends," said Amanda Edge, Customer Service Manager for Entergy, "They provide opportunities for students to explore new interests, develop critical life skills, and connect with mentors who encourage growth and positive choices. By supporting programs like Lights On Afterschool, Entergy is helping to ensure that every child has access to opportunities that help them shine."  Entergy participated in Tuesday's special presentation, introducing students to read their essays about afterschool programs and announcing winners of the Lights On Afterschool poster making contest.  

An 8th grader in attendance was asked the question "What is your favorite part of your afterschool program?" Her response is worth sharing, as she replied, "We have the best afterschool program in the district, and my teacher is the best afterschool teacher you could ever have. I love afterschool because I'm free to express myself during class and my teacher checks up on me. She's a really lovely teacher. She understands me and she helps me; she lets my brain blossom!” 

A special thank you goes to the event’s key partners and community supporters for their dedication: Monroe City Schools, 21st Century Afterschool Programs, Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, Monroe Moccasins, Bayou Rougarou, Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office, Louisiana Tech University SCILS Region 8 LASTEM Center, Entergy, and Macaroni Kid Monroe West Monroe. 

Community Call to Action: On this official Lights On Afterschool Day, CCNELA encourages everyone to turn on a blue light in their home or light a landmark blue to show their support and ensure the critical need for quality afterschool programs remains visible.  

For more information about Lights On Afterschool Day, please visit www.afterschoolalliance.org/loa.cfm