Studies 48 after school care programs selected from a survey of 141 public school systems in North Carolina. Provides information on location, population, operational policies, content, personnel evaluation, and plans for future changes. (RJC)

Because North Carolina has the nation's highest percentage of mothers working outside of the home, each of the state's 141 public school systems was surveyed with a 33-item questionnaire to identify existing after school care programs. Responses were received from 138 systems. A total of 48 programs serving 51 systems were identified, and…

A number of risks researchers have identified with latchkey children are described. The lack of effective advocacy on behalf of such children is discussed and special educators in general are seen as well-suited to the advocate's role resulting from their knowledge base, experience, and commitment to preventive programing. (PB)