Watertown School Committee members are facing pressing concerns regarding the extended day program following a recent public forum. Parents voiced their frustrations over the lack of availability and the impact it has on working families. David Geissler, a local resident, highlighted the urgent need for extended day services, emphasizing that many families, including his own, are struggling without adequate after-school care. He pointed out that the current staffing situation limits the number of available slots, which he believes does not meet the community's needs.

Geissler urged the committee to explore solutions, including engaging with city stakeholders and utilizing census data to better understand demand. He also suggested looking into successful models from neighboring towns like Belmont and Lexington, which have effectively expanded their extended day offerings.

Another parent, Ashley McDermott, echoed these sentiments, sharing her own challenges in securing after-school care for her kindergartner. She noted that while some progress has been made, many families remain on waitlists, and the current system does not reflect the true demand for extended day services.

The discussions also touched on the broader implications of the extended day program, with parents stressing that the lack of options creates equity issues in a community where many families rely on dual incomes. The school committee's commitment to addressing these concerns will be crucial in shaping a more supportive environment for all families in Watertown.

As the committee moves forward, the focus will be on developing a comprehensive plan that not only addresses immediate staffing and capacity issues but also ensures that all families have access to the extended day services they need. The community is looking for tangible outcomes that will enhance educational support and provide peace of mind for working parents.