Extended Learning Opportunities Are Bringing New Attention to Afterschool Programs
The practice of providing students with extended learning opportunities (before- and after-school, weekend, and summer) to expand their learning and participate in a variety of extracurricular activities is long standing. Afterschool programs provide young people with a positive alternative to spending time on the streets or being home alone in the afternoons. A growing body of research indicates that high-quality after-school programs can reduce risk-taking behaviors, provide positive developmental opportunities, and improve the academic performance of students, particularly those at risk of academic failure.
Extended learning opportunities (ELO), as a means to reduce the achievement gap and improve student outcomes, have captured the attention of policymakers and funders alike. ). U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan has also long been an advocate of this model since his days working in Chicago Public Schools. President Obama has also endorsed the concept.
For New Jersey afterschool organizations, attention to extended learning can lead to funding opportunities and new tools to strengthen programs and improve student outcomes. At their hearts, afterschool organizations are extended learning organizations. They build new skills, create opportunities for leadership, and guide social and emotional development for young people. Every program has a story to tell about a child that has thrived both in and out of school.
Support for these programs comes from the local, state and federal level, with substantial federal support coming through the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program and additional support through the Supplemental Educational Services (SES) provisions of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB).
Over the next few months, NJ Afterschool Action will highlight news, profiles of Extended Learning in Action, research and resources all related to ELOs. Additionally, NJSACC will offer several trainings, webinars and technical assistance to programs interested in learning more about the model.
