Afterschool and Summer Learning: Opportunities to advance local priorities in Oklahoma
This presentation was delivered as testimony to the House Common Education Committee, at its written request, at an informational hearing of the State of Oklahoma House of Representatives on Oct. 3, 2018.
October 12, 2018
Overview
- After a brief introduction to the Wallace Foundation and its work, the briefing emphasized the importance of afterschool and summer learning opportunities as means of reaching disadvantaged and low-achieving students. Participation in such programs aids in closing the "opportunity gap" while allowing both students and parents to benefit from supervised hours.
- The briefing argued that federal funds for ESSA Titles I, II, and IV can be used on afterschool and summer programs should they meet evidentiary requirements. A successful afterschool system, however, is best achieved through addressing key elements of leadership, coordination, data, and quality while taking a "no one-size fits all" approach by catering the system's needs to that of the community.
- State policymakers can assist in implementing successful programs by supporting ones matching local needs, incentivizing and supporting local providers, maximizing and measuring attendance, measuring outcomes, and using Title IV and other ESSA funds for afterschool and summer learning.
- The briefing concluded by addressing the positive impact of afterschool and summer learning on students' social and emotional wellbeing, physical health, and ability to build inclusive communities.
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