Jaffrey’s extended day program is officially over, but the town is working to start a new program for the 2017-18 school year.
The Jaffrey Select Board met with Recreation Director Renee Sangermano Tuesday morning to discuss the possibility of creating a town operated program for elementary school students in Jaffrey.
“At a minimum, I’m going to need three months to put something together,” said Sangermano, who said a rec department run program would likely include time for physical activity, homework, and snacks.
While no official vote was made, all three Selectmen shot down the idea of taking over what was left of Jaffrey’s extended day program.
The board showed an interest in creating something new, but acknowledged the project would only go forward if there would be no tax impact on the town. Town Manager Dave Caron said that if the program was to staff at a 13:1 ratio of students to part-time staff with a $40 to $50 fee per week, the program could break even.
Selectmen decided that if a program was to form, the town would use a pre-registration process to determine viability.
In the meantime, Jaffrey resident Owen Houghton said community members are coming together to discuss opportunities to help families without a place for their kids to go after school for this upcoming year.
“The community center has some funds that could help in the interim, but we need to get an infrastructure in place,” said Houghton. “Some parents will have to quit their jobs and stay home if there isn’t an after school option.”
Nicholas Handy can be reached at 924-7172 ext. 235.