KidsZone West is a partnership between West Sacramento and the Washington Unified School District that provides free before and after-school programs. Photo courtesy of Washington Unified School District

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The City of West Sacramento approved a contract worth more than $2 million with the Washington Unified School District (WUSD).

Grants from the After School Enrichment & Safety (ASES) and Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P), made possible through Proposition 49, will fund before and after school programs up to $2,230,743 for each fiscal year through 2027.

Funds for KidsZone West help feed children with a daily morning and supper snack, provide arts and crafts material and supply disguised learning activities. According to Washington Unified School District Communications director Giorgios Kazanis, KidsZone West has experienced significant growth since its inception in 2007 and has evolved into a cornerstone of our community's educational and recreational landscape.

 City and school officials say KidsZone West is essential to keeping students safe and engaged before and after school. Photo courtesy of Washington Unified School District

The program occurs at four school campuses: Elkhorn Village, Riverbank, Westfield Village and Westmore Oaks.

“This growth has been fueled by strategic investments, including ASES and ELO-P grants, which have enabled us to enhance our services and include intersession programming during summer, winter and spring breaks,” Kazanis said.

Kazanis added the program's expansion reflects the district's commitment to the Washington Unified School District strategic plan's pillars of equity, excellence, and empowerment, ensuring that all students can access enriching activities that support their academic and personal development.

Expanded Learning Opportunities Program director Rahele Atabaki said the program is incredibly fun, with engaging experiences across a wide range of interests. West Sacramento Parks and Recreation Youth & Teen Programs Supervisor Jennifer Hall said city officials know the importance of students' academic, social, emotional and physical needs.

 KidsZone West offers theater and leadership-building classes along with physical activities. Photo courtesy of Washington Unified School District

“We recognize the challenge experienced by working parents, single parents and low-income families,” Hall said.

“These after-school programs are important, as they provide a safe learning environment for children as their parents balance work while trying to raise a family.”

Tennis, golf and obstacle courses are just a few of the physical activities offered, along with theater and leadership-building classes.

“We have something for everyone,” Atabaki said of the program that provides morning drop-off and evening pickup.

Kazanis said the collaboration allows school and city officials to leverage resources and expertise, ensuring we provide high-quality, enriching experiences for our students.

“By working together, we align with our strategic plan's focus on equity, excellence, and empowerment, ensuring every child has access to safe and engaging after-school activities,” Kazanis said. “Providing after-school programs is vital for supporting working parents by offering their children a safe and structured environment.”

Hall concurs.

“If you ask parents, they'd rather have their children participating in after-school programs than coming home after class to an empty house,” Hall said.

“These programs alleviate the stress of balancing work and childcare, enabling parents to focus on their careers while knowing their children are in a supportive setting,” Kazanis said.

 Tennis, golf, soccer and more keep kids active through a partnership between the City of West Sacramento and the local school district. Photo courtesy of Washington Unified School District

KidsZone provides a comprehensive range of academic, enrichment and recreational activities, according to Kazanis.

“The grants allow children who attend WUSD schools to attend before and after-school programs at no cost to parents,” Kazanis said.

“These funds also cover program costs, including staff salaries and stipends for program aides and site leaders.”

The school communication director added that the million-dollar investment ensures we can continue offering quality after-school care programming in a safe, engaging environment to motivate and inspire student learning.

“KidsZone's success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of WUSD, the City of West Sacramento and our dedicated staff, all working together to provide a supportive and engaging environment for our youth,” Kazanis said.

District officials encourage parents interested in enrolling their children in KidsZone West to visit the district website or contact their school's main office for more information. Free enrollment is open to all Washington Unified School District TK-6 students who qualify under the program requirements.

“Our dedicated staff is ready to assist with enrollment and answer any questions,” Kazanis said.