“An adult saved my life, and we need adults to save today’s youths’ lives.”
Mansfield City Schools Superintendent and long-time youth advocate Stan Jefferson opened this year’s Lights on Afterschool discussion at The City Club of Cleveland with a powerful reminder of why afterschool programs matter so deeply.
Ohio Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel and ODA CEO Dr. Dorothy Moulthrop joined Supt. Jefferson for a conversation about the essential role high-quality out-of-school time programs play in youth development and in supporting Ohio’s families. The panel emphasized that learning is relational, growth happens through connection rather than isolation, and the consistent presence of caring mentors in afterschool and summer programs helps drive confidence, curiosity, and academic progress.
“[Growth and learning] happen when a student feels seen, supported, and encouraged by someone who believes in them,” said Lt. Gov. Tressel.
The program was opened by Valerie Kunze, Administrator, Office of Whole Child Supports from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. Welcoming guests, Ms. Kunze shared that Lights on Afterschool is a nationwide movement established by the Afterschool Alliance to draw attention to the importance of afterschool programs.
Ms. Kunze was followed by Neema David, an alumna from - and now employee of - Youth Opportunities Unlimited, whose personal story as an immigrant from the Democratic Republic of Congo captivated the crowd. Ms. David introduced the panel speakers.
We are grateful to Lt. Gov. Tressel, Supt. Jefferson, Ms. Kunze, Ms. David, and all who attended for their time and commitment to supporting youth. Lights on Afterschool shines a spotlight on what happens beyond the school day, and we are proud to lead the region’s event as part of the City of Cleveland’s Thriving Youth Series.
Generously sponsored by RPM International Inc., this year’s gathering underscored one simple truth: sometimes it takes just one caring adult to change a young person’s life.
