The proposed layoffs and elimination of on-site supervisors (Coordinators) in the LEARNS after-school programs by the Berkeley Unified School District (BUSD) are not merely administrative decisions—they are decisions that deeply affect the quality and safety of educational programs. As a member of the Berkeley community, I have seen firsthand the positive impact that these programs and their supervisors have on our children. Eliminating these positions is detrimental to program quality, safety, and erodes community trust.

On-site supervisors provide vital oversight and guidance that ensure our children not only receive help with their homework but also experience enriched social interactions and developmental activities in a safe, nurturing environment. Without these supervisors, the unique and supportive atmosphere of LEARNS is at risk.

In recent years, after-school programs have become indispensable to families, providing a secure environment where students can continue their learning and growth beyond regular school hours. Supervisors ensure that programs run smoothly, address safety concerns promptly, and maintain an inclusive community that fosters personal and academic excellence.

The statistics reveal that after-school programs with adequate supervision have a significant positive impact on student outcomes, including higher academic performance, better social skills, and reduced behavior issues. According to the Afterschool Alliance, students who participate in such programs are more likely to excel academically and socially when there is robust adult supervision. Removing such critical positions strips families of these advantages and returns our children to unsecured and uninspiring environments.

Moreover, laying off these supervisors erodes our community's trust in public education. Families must have confidence in the programs they rely upon—they must know that their children are safe and thriving. By eliminating these roles, BUSD is sending a concerning message that undermines this confidence.

We urge BUSD to reconsider this decision and prioritize the needs of our students and families over budget cuts. Let's work together to find alternative solutions that do not compromise the integrity and safety of our cherished after-school programs.

Join me in calling upon the Berkeley Unified School District to rescind these layoffs and halt the elimination of on-site supervisors in LEARNS after-school programs. Your voice and support are crucial. Please sign this petition to help us preserve the quality, safety, and trust of our educational community.