Governor McMaster Proclaims October 23 as Lights On Afterschool Day in South Carolina
October 23, 2025
USC Coach Dawn Staley to Celebrate Students Tomorrow in Honor of Afterschool Programs that Inspire Learning and Leadership
Governor Henry McMaster has officially proclaimed October 23, 2025, as “Lights On Afterschool Day” in South Carolina, joining thousands of communities across the nation in celebrating the life-changing impact of afterschool programs.
“Afterschool programs provide safe and engaging learning experiences that build stronger communities and a brighter future for South Carolina,” Governor McMaster states in the proclamation. “They help children develop the skills essential for success in life and work.”
The announcement comes just as a release of new America After 3PM data shows that five in six South Carolina parents who want afterschool programs can’t access them, often due to cost or availability. Despite the shortage, 89% of parents with children in afterschool programs rate them as “excellent” or “very good,” underscoring both the quality and the need for expanded access.
“This week shines a light on both the progress we’ve made and the gaps we must still close,” said Zelda Waymer, President and CEO of the South Carolina Afterschool Alliance (SCAA). “When you combine the Governor’s leadership, statewide community support, and inspiring champions like Coach Dawn Staley, you see exactly what’s possible when we all work together to give students opportunity beyond the school day.”
As part of South Carolina’s Lights on Afterschool celebration, USC Head Women’s Basketball Coach Dawn Staley will welcome a group of students who attended the SC STEM Extravaganza earlier this month to tomorrow night’s women’s basketball exhibition game at Colonial Life Arena. The students are receiving tickets and will get to hear from the inspirational Coach Staley after the game.
“Afterschool programs help kids discover their strengths and build confidence,” added Waymer. “I’m proud to celebrate these students and the educators and mentors like Coach Staley who light the way for them every day.”
The South Carolina Afterschool Alliance partners with schools, nonprofits, and community organizations statewide to expand access to high-quality afterschool and summer learning programs. Through hands-on learning, STEM enrichment, and career exploration, SCAA programs help students stay safe, engaged, and inspired long after the school day ends.
South Carolina Afterschool Alliance (SCAA) is a partnership among state government agencies, municipal leaders, foundations, higher education, business leaders, the arts community, local school districts, after school program providers and other critical stakeholders joining together to form a supportive statewide network for after-school and summer learning programs. SCAA works with its partners to raise awareness, increase sustainability, and promote the importance of quality afterschool programs. For additional information please visit http://scafterschool.com/.