Expanded Learning Programs
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Beyond the Bell offers expanded learning programs designed to support students’ academic, social-emotional, and physical development while providing meaningful learning experiences based on student interests. Our expanded learning programs provide meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and prepare students for college, career, and life.
Expanded learning opportunities may include before-school, after-school, summer, or intersession programs, with specific offerings varying by site. All programs provided through Beyond the Bell are offered free of charge.
Before School Program
The before-school program is available at select schools and is delivered by Beyond the Bell staff or in partnership with a contracted agency partner. This program begins 90 minutes before the instructional day starts and is offered throughout the academic year.
The program provides a variety of services and opportunities aimed at supporting academic achievement, fostering enrichment, promoting social-emotional wellness, and encouraging positive youth development. Students in grades TK–8 participate in activities such as homework support, reading, science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), as well as visual and performing arts.
Parents or guardians are required to sign in their child at the start of each day.
After School Program
The comprehensive after-school program is delivered by Beyond the Bell staff or in partnership with a contracted agency partner. For elementary schools, the program operates from dismissal until 6:00 p.m., while program end times for middle and high schools vary based on the dismissal time of each respective school.
This program provides a wide range of services and opportunities aimed at supporting academic achievement, promoting enrichment, enhancing social-emotional wellness, and fostering positive youth development. Students in grades TK–12 receive homework support, engage in reading and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) activities, and participate in sports, physical fitness, and visual and performing arts.
For elementary students, parents or guardians are required to sign their child out at the end of the program each day. Middle school parents may sign a waiver allowing their child to sign themselves out, while senior high school students can sign themselves out independently.
Youth Services
Youth Services (YS) is available to all students in grades 2–8 and provides after-school services and opportunities designed to support positive youth development. Students can participate in a variety of sports and enrichment activities.
YS is a “permissive” program where parents or guardians are not required to sign their child out at the end of each day. Students are permitted to leave the program on their own.
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT
Expanded Learning Programs support Academic Excellence, Joy and Wellness, and Investing in Staff in the following ways:
Pillar 1: Academic Excellence: Enriching Experiences
- Creating a safe and supportive environment where all students can engage in extracurricular activities.
- Ensuring activities are active and engaging.
- Utilizing youth voice and choice in the creation of activities.
- Promoting student well-being through opportunities to learn about nutrition, physical activity, and other healthy choices.
Pillar 2: Joy and Wellness: Outstanding Attendance
- Encouraging outstanding attendance during the regular school day and in the after school program.
- Designing programs based upon student interest and leadership opportunities.
- Collaborating with community organizations to enhance student participation.
- Marketing and promoting expanded learning opportunities to all stakeholders.
Pillar 5: Investing in Staff: Diverse Workforce
- Hiring staff who are talented and reflect our students’ diversity.
- Creating paid internships for high school students to work in expanded learning programs.
- Increasing investments in marketing, recruitment, and training of staff.
- Providing promotional opportunities for expanded learning program staff.
