Connecticut After School Leader Honored as an After School Champion in Nation’s Capital

Dr. Agnes Quinones and Michelle Doucette Cunningham

The National Afterschool Alliance has recognized Dr. Agnes Quinones, Education Consultant for the Connecticut State Department of Education, for her support of after school programs at the tenth annual “Breakfast of Champions,” a gala event in Washington, D.C. Dr. Quinones was one of just nine state champions from around the country honored at the Breakfast on May 17th. The Connecticut After School Network nominated her for the honor.

Dr. Quinones’ work in the policy arena has significantly improved learning opportunities for young people, both during and after school. She was a driving force behind the creation of STEM-focused after school curricula for middle and high schools, and helped to ensure that Connecticut has a sustained investment in science technology, engineering and math (STEM) during after school hours.

“Dr. Quinones is a committed and capable leader who can take a good idea and make it great,” said Michelle Doucette Cunningham, executive director of the Connecticut After School Network. “Her expertise and ability to collaborate have made the critical difference in helping to ensure that after school students have opportunities to learn and get excited about the sciences and math.”

The “Breakfast of Champions” is part of the tenth annual After School for All Challenge sponsored by the Afterschool Alliance, which brings hundreds of parents, educators, children, program directors and advocates from around the country for a series of events and meetings with members of Congress. Following the Breakfast, participants fanned out across Capitol Hill to talk with their members of Congress about the importance of expanding opportunities for kids to engage in STEM activities. This year is the Year of Science in After School.

Kaitlyn O'Leary, Gerald Barrett & Bill Stover stand behind Agnes and Michelle