"Not Alone In Worrying"

An article in the Roanoke Times NRV Current discusses the demise of an after-school program at one of Montgomery County's public schools. 

Folks need to remember about 47% of all county tax revenues support the public education of nearly 9,200 local students.  Throw in federal and state taxes, and it amounts to 60% of the county's budget.  Many others students attend private schools or may be home schooled.

The after-school program was initially funded through a federal grant, with services then provided by a non-profit inside the public school buildings.  The Boys & Girls Club is one of many organizations which focuses on youth, several which are very active in our community.  And just like nearly everyone else, they've experienced some belt tightening due to the national economy and a related decline in donations along with increased competition.   

The article goes on to say that a for-profit business operates in several of the county's elementary schools, providing supervised before- and after-school care to students.   

A parent wrote to the elected school board complaining he was "forced" to find alternative after-school care for his child, following a transition from elementary to middle school.  There wasn't enough participation, or demand, to  financially sustain such a program at this particular school -- even in a public building, even with federal grants, even with the support of a non-profit.

While all responsible adults should care about the safety and well being of the more vulnerable members of our community -- including the disabled, elderly and youth -- who ultimately is responsible for providing and paying for this care?