VALENTINE, Neb. - The future of Valentine Community Schools’ after-school program is uncertain after the district did not receive the 21st Century Community Learning Center grant, which has funded the program in recent years.

Superintendent Mike Halley shared the news with the school board on Wednesday. Board member Michelle Kluender asked whether the district could begin charging families for the program. Halley said that’s an option, and administrators have already looked into how other districts handle funding.

Middle School Principal Jeff Sayer noted that Kearney Public Schools charges around $50 per week per student. Elementary Principal Jay Elliott added that most after-school programs typically charge some sort of fee.

Halley encouraged board members to consider possible solutions ahead of the June meeting.

“We could also look into if there's any incentive that would help kids on a free or reduced lunch,” said Sayer.