LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) joined Governor Gretchen Whitmer and partners across the state last week to celebrate Lights On Afterschool Day in Michigan, highlighting the importance of afterschool programs in helping children learn, grow and thrive beyond the school day.
“Before- and after-school programs give kids a safe place to learn, do homework, and make friends while their parents are at work,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m proud that our seventh education budget supports kids and saves parents money by expanding before-and after-school programs in schools across our state. This year’s Lights On Afterschool Day was another example of how we’re working together to empower every student and help more families ‘make it’ in Michigan.”
“Afterschool programs open doors to new experiences and help students discover their strengths beyond the classroom,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “They connect learning to life, and that connection can often change a child’s trajectory. Through Lights on Afterschool, we were pleased to celebrate the educators and organizations who keep the lights on for Michigan’s students and remind families that learning doesn’t end when the school day does.”
Each October, Lights On Afterschool is celebrated nationally to highlight the achievements of afterschool students and educators while raising awareness about the need for accessible, high-quality programs. More than 90 organizations across Michigan joined thousands nationwide in hosting events that brought students, families, and community members together to share stories, showcase achievements, and spotlight the importance of expanded learning opportunities.
Lights on Afterschool messages reached approximately 7.6 million people across social media, shining a light on the growing demand for afterschool opportunities. According to the Afterschool Alliance, approximately 30 million families across the nation say they would enroll their child in an afterschool program if one were available in their community.
“This demand speaks volumes about how vital these programs are for students and families,” said Rawlan Lillard II, deputy director for the Office of Education Partnerships at MILEAP. “While many states continue to struggle with sustaining access, Michigan is leading by example, investing in opportunities that support students before school, after school, and during the summer. Our commitment helps ensure that learning doesn’t stop when the final bell rings.”
More than 90,000 Michigan students participated last year in hands-on learning, enrichment, and academic support through nearly 700 OST program sites statewide.
These efforts are made possible through the state’s sustained investment in expanded learning, with $75 million included in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget to support organizations that deliver safe, high-quality programming before school, after school, and during the summer months. The grant application for the 2025–26 program cycle is currently open.
To learn more about Lights on Afterschool and find highlights from this year’s events, visit www.afterschoolalliance.
For more information about Out-of-School time and other initiatives, visit Michigan.gov/MiLEAP/
