PARIS – Oxford County 4-H and afterschool sites celebrated Lights on After School across Oxford County recently.

The University of Maine 4-H Youth Development is a partner on three large 21st Century Grants in SADs 17, 39 and 44 and is providing 4-H JC funding to afterschool sites at Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School, Hartford Elementary and Fryeburg Snow schools.

Supporters of afterschool programming held a rally at the State House Hall of Flags in Augusta recently to recognize the value of out-of-school learning and activities for the children of Maine. A crowd of children, youth, parents, program providers and other supporters gathered for the event.

Following a performance by elementary school students, First Lady Karen Baldacci read Gov. John Baldacci’s Proclamation of Lights on Afterschool Day and Maine Attorney General Steve Rowe spoke.

More information is available at www.maineafterschool.net or www.afterschoolalliance.org.