Fort Worth After School 2010 Showcase of Stars

The stars came out Monday night as the Fort Worth After School celebrated ten years of success and recognized 172 students from 85 Fort Worth ISD Schools.  Deputy Superintendent Patricia Linares and Fort Worth Chief of Police Jeffery Halstead presented each student with a commemorative medal, certificate and various gifts from sponsors.

Each participating campus selected two shining stars based on attitude, attendance and outstanding behavior.

Educators, parents and city leaders joined in their praise of the innovative after-school program that builds academic performance, strong relationships and improved self-esteem for students.

The event, held at Casa Manana, featured performances by dozens of students.  City Council representative Frank Moss brought greetings from the city of Fort Worth.  Fort Worth ISD Board members Mrs. Christine Moss and Dr. Carlos Vasquez also attended as did Tom Higgins, Assistant City Manager for Economic and Community Development for the city of Fort Worth.  Mr. Higgins and Dr. Linares are co-chairs of the Fort Worth After School Committee.

A series of video vignettes, produced by EdTV in the Fort Worth ISD Communications Department, was shown to the audience throughout the evening and offered insight and affirmation of the unique city-school district partnership.   Funding for after school programs has decreased nationally due to economic hardships. However, the Fort Worth Independent School District, the City of Fort Worth and TEA have long recognized the value of after school programs in Fort Worth and have funded structured after school enrichment programs for 10 years.