In light of all the talk in education today about the complex factors attributed to the gap between effective and ineffective schools, many educators are beginning to doubt that true reform is on the way. What makes the difference between a successful education and an unsuccessful education, teaching that brings rewards and teaching that causes pain? Certainly, many different factors influence the outcome of the effectiveness of schools in America. However, the main priority for our students is to prepare them to demonstrate proficiency in academic skills with an emphasis on mathematics, reading, and writing. Now, with the implementation of the No Child Left Behind legislation, school districts have been funded to use specific after-school programs geared towards increasing the academic success of at-risk students. So, why are these seemingly great programs being reviewed constantly? Today, millions of children return to an empty home after school because working families increasingly find it difficult to care for their children during the afternoon and early evening hours. But are these children better off in an enrichment program opposed to being home alone? Results of this study indicated increased academic achievement in the areas of reading and mathematics of some of the at-risk children who participated in this study. Other than an increase in academics, those who attended the after-school program reported positive experiences encountered through their participation.