What happens when the school bell rings at the end of the day and children can’t just go home because Mom and Dad aren’t there?  Is there a safe haven for the kids where they can go to an environment of safe play and homework time?  A Phoenix church has come up with an answer that seems to be working.  

The church is working hard trying to live out its mission: “The Church that Loves Their Neighbors.”  Most recently the idea of an “after-school” ministry to children in the neighborhood is underway.  The program is called “After the Bell.”  The principal of the nearby elementary school and the Sunburst Elementary School program director were consulted and gave their blessing.  

Less than a dozen students currently attend, but it is very early in the program, and, if enthusiasm can count for as much as experience the casual observer can’t help but “catch the spirit” of the children, the leaders and volunteers.

Children’s activities include organized play, exercise, snacks, and homework time, as well as some Bible instruction.  More than just an extension of the school day, it provides a pleasant place for a developing community that, at this point, includes children from first through sixth grade.

Funding sources for the program include the hosting church, parents of the children, and personal support obtained by the director.  A volunteer staff of about ten men and women from the church also contribute their time and efforts.  The projected ratio of adult to children is 5:1.

The children are accompanied from the school to the church “after the bell” dismissing the school.  It is a short walk to the school, led by the director.  Sessions run from school release time (12:20 on early release days and 1:50 every other day) till 6:00 PM, at which time the parents are responsible for picking up their children.  Cost for the parents is $45. per week per child, with an additional $25.for each additional child from the same family.  It is the hope of the director that after the program is established, they would apply for grants that would minimize or possibly even eliminate the family costs.
A result of an effective youth ministry at the church, a recent graduate of Arizona State University stepped forward to begin her teaching career…and the program was launched under her leadership.  Serena Beckman’s degree was in early childhood, and she has been certified in Arizona by passing the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments.  College students from ASU will also be participating in the program this fall acting as tutors for “After the Bell” in order to fulfill their field experience.  Arizona State University West is located across the street from the church.  

All employed and volunteer personnel have undergone a background check and been trained in abuse awareness. The program does have a separate identity from the church, but is considered a ministry of the congregation.

According to the director, Serena Beckman, the greatest joy has been participating in the growth and development of young lives.  

The greatest challenge has been to “get the word out” to the parents in the community.  The church has worked closely with school personnel, and sent out post cards.  A prayer walk was conducted in front of the school prior to the resumption of classes.

Some of the students have brought their parents to church on Sunday.  Several of the current participants are unchurched.
Interested persons may obtain additional information about the program by going to afterthebellkids.org.