JMCSS celebrates “Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week”

JMCSS celebrates
“Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week”

JACKSON, Tenn. – This week, the Jackson-Madison County School System applauds the hard work and dedication of our more than 60 afterschool professionals. 

The team of educators and staff work with more than 450 students at eight different elementary and middle schools, providing working parents a safe place for their children to continue to learn and play after the regular school day ends.  Two-hours of before school care is offered at two JMCSS elementary schools.

“We have a very dedicated staff with very little turnover,” said Ginger Carver, JMCSS School-Age Child Care Coordinator.  “This is helpful for our students and their families, giving them consistency of leadership in the program.”

During the up to two and a half hours of afterschool care, students are supervised as they complete homework, play on the playground or in the gym, interact with classmates and receive a snack. 

“We believe afterschool professionals make a difference in the lives of young people,” said Carver.  “We encourage everyone to join us this week in thanking the afterschool professionals in their lives.”

In the 25 years JMCSS has offered afterschool care, fees have only been raised one time.  Currently elementary parents pay $25 per week per child.  Middle school parents pay $40 per week per child.  A five-dollar discount is offered for families with second or additional children.

Simple things you can do to thank your afterschool professional include a handwritten note from you or your child, an email to his or her supervisor (gccarver@jmcss.org), taking treats to the staff or using your social media and the hashtag #heartofafterschool.

JMCSS afterschool program sites includes: Community Montessori, Denmark Elementary, East Elementary, Northeast Middle, Pope School, Rose Hill School, South Elementary and Thelma Barker Elementary.  Before school care is offered at East and Thelma Barker Elementary.