Experts agree: The more time kids spend in positive learning environments outside of school, the better they do during school hours. Plus, there are real dangers of leaving kids on their own after the last school bell rings. After school, between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., 14 million kids are on their own. Known as the “prime time for crime,” kids are more likely to shoplift, use drugs or alcohol, have sex or drive recklessly.

Watch After The Bell and hear real-life stories from kids who say their lives were changed for the better by the opportunities, mentors, coaching – and fun – provided by school and community after-school programs.