City, District Consider After-School Program

Ballet and English tutoring could be among new after-school programs for local students under a proposal being considered tonight by the school board.

The “joint use” proposal would be a collaboration between the Santa Ana Unified School District and the city for after-school programs aimed at keeping children off the streets and improving academic and other skills.

The program is not finalized, but the city would be expected to pick up the costs, said Rip Ribble, the city’s assistant director of Recreation and Community Services.

The city likely would pay up to $50,000 a year for a site coordinator at each school, Ribble said. The coordinator would be responsible for determining what after-school programs are needed, working closely with school principals.

City officials also would pick up costs related to wear and tear on the campuses, maintenance, and some supplies, Ribble said.

“It turns the schools into community centers,” he said.

After-school programs would be free to students whenever possible through, for example, the use of volunteer tutors.

The school board meets at 7 p.m. at district headquarters, 1601 E. Chestnut Ave.

Information: (714) 558-5512.