A recent study by Augustana University and nonprofit Sioux Falls Thrive found that more than 1 in 4 South Dakota children are unsupervised after school. The finding means South Dakota has the highest statewide average of unsupervised children in the US.
In Fort Pierre, the Stanley County Schools after school program has changed this year. Formerly known as the GOLD program, Elementary School principal and program director Terri Mehlhaff says it’s now called the BUFFS program.
The Boys and Girls Club of the Capitol Area in Pierre is one place for kids to go after school. Club director Becky Spoehr says they have programs for elementary, middle and high school students.
Parents have to pay more to send their kids to the BUFFS program than they did for the previous program. Mehlhaff says the financial burdon was a consideration as school officials worked to decide whether or not to offer an after school program in Fort Pierre this year.
Spoehr says the Boys and Girls Club has a sliding scale for membership fees.
Studies show after-school programs can improve students’ social skills and mental health.
