The Nebraska State Board of Education believes that in order to help prepare future generations of Nebraska youth for success in life, Nebraska’s schools, families and communities must work together to provide multiple opportunities for healthy growth, development and academic success.
The Nebraska State Board of Education recognizes that the traditional school calendar does not fit all students’ needs. The typical school day may not provide adequate time for students needing additional educational and enrichment opportunities in order to experience academic success; particularly students who are limited English proficient, live in poverty, or those who may start the school year learning below their grade level. Quality Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) programs build on, support, and enhance learning during times when students are not in school (before and after school, weekends, and summer) and are, therefore, a critical component of Nebraska’s educational landscape and one that should be intentionally supported and developed in communities across our state.
Quality expanded learning principles include the following:
- Administration with sound management and well-developed systems
- College/career awareness and readiness
- Community-school partnerships and resource sharing
- Diverse, prepared staff including certificated educators
- Engaged learning
- Family engagement
- Intentional programming aligned with the school day program
- Ongoing assessment and improvement
- Participation, access and support during transitions
- Safety, health, and wellness
The Board, therefore, encourages Nebraska school district partnerships with community stakeholders to adopt a vision for quality expanded learning opportunities.