NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – Supporters of after-school programs believe they can play a role in helping Tennessee lead the nation in academic improvement.

A recent study by the national Afterschool Alliance ranked Tennessee among the top 10 states for after-school programs. Last month, the state Education Department and other stakeholders announced the creation of a network to increase such programs.

While they’re commonly known for helping out parents who may not be able to pick up a child from school on time, advocates say after school programs can give youth the critical thinking and problem solving skills intended to prepare them for college and the workforce.

Education officials have credited higher standards with helping Tennessee’s students drastically improve their test scores, particularly in math and reading.