Washington State Representative Steve Bergquist visited the Champions after-school program at Glenridge Elementary on November 2 to learn more about the role extended-day programs play in supporting students and working families.

During the visit, Bergquist met with Champions leadership, Kent School District (KSD) and Glenridge Elementary School staff, and students participating in the program. The visit provided an opportunity to observe firsthand how before- and after-school programs create safe, engaging environments where students can continue learning, build relationships, and explore new interests beyond the traditional school day.

Champions serves students ages 5 to 12 and offers a mix of student-directed and staff-led activities, including art, science, problem-solving, movement, and other enrichment opportunities. The program operates before and after school at four KSD locations, including Glenridge Elementary, Soos Creek Elementary, Emerald Park Elementary, and Neely-O’Brien Elementary.

Bergquist said programs like Champions provide important benefits for both students and families.

"Parents really count on before- and after-school care in the school system, and this is the type of program that really shows a great benefit, not just at the care level, but also the educational opportunities that it provides for our students," Bergquist said.

He noted that visits like this help policymakers better understand how state policies affect families and community programs.

"We change policies without really realizing the impacts that it has at the family level," Bergquist said. "We need to really do a better job of making sure we understand those impacts."

For Champions leaders, the visit was an opportunity to highlight the importance of out-of-school-time programming and the need for accessible childcare options for families.

"It's important for us to be able to showcase the importance of out-of-school time for working families and the need that's in our communities right now," said Debbie Herzog, Regional Manager for Champions programs in Washington. "Programs like this and other out-of-school programs really support working families."

Herzog also emphasized that financial assistance may be available to help families access licensed childcare programs.

"There are a lot of resources that are available to working families that I'm not sure they're aware are at their fingertips to help with the cost of childcare," Herzog said. "We always encourage them to reach out to whichever provider services their school district and find out what the options are."

Acting Superintendent Dr. Wade Barringer said programs like Champions provide meaningful benefits for both students and families by extending learning opportunities beyond the school day.

"Anytime you can extend the school day for students to have access to additional learning, as well as activities and just getting their energy out with their peers, it's going to be a great thing for kids," Barringer said. "Programs like Champions allow for not only an after-school opportunity that keeps kids safe but also continues the learning."

Barringer added that it was valuable for Bergquist to see the program in action and hear directly from those involved.

"I think him being here and being able to see things firsthand, ask questions, and get some insight on what he should be fighting for at the state level is important," Barringer said.

The visit underscored the important role before- and after-school programs play in supporting student success, providing enriching experiences for children, and helping families access reliable care throughout the workday.

“As a teacher and as a parent of kids this age, the benefits of these types of programs are something we can’t lose track of,” Bergquist said. "I really hope that we can continue supporting our students and our families in this way.”