California Afterschool Programs

California’s Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P) sets a bold vision for afterschool and summer learning by prioritizing equity, enrichment, and whole-child development for TK–6 students. Rooted in California’s commitment to inclusive education and youth wellness, ELO-P calls on schools and partners to deliver engaging, hands-on experiences that complement the school day without duplicating it. Programs are expected to support social-emotional learning (SEL), academic acceleration, family connection, and staffing sustainability — all while creating joyful, student-centered environments that keep kids coming back.

Whole Child Development

• Why it matters: California’s expanded learning framework emphasizes the whole child, integrating academic, social-emotional, and physical growth.
• Program Implication: Curriculum should include SEL, collaboration, creativity, and activities that build identity, confidence, and relationships.
• The MindWorks Difference: “MindWorks offers SEL-integrated enrichment that supports the whole child — not just academic gains.”

Enrichment Beyond the Classroom

• Why it matters: ELO-P isn’t designed to extend the school day with more academics — it’s about creative, hands-on, experiential learning.
• Program Implication: Activities like arts, STEM challenges, movement, and student-driven projects are prioritized over worksheets or traditional tutoring.
• The MindWorks Difference: “MindWorks academic enrichment products make enrichment easy — every activity is hands-on, engaging, and built for informal learning spaces.”

TK–6 Focus with Inclusive Access

• Why it matters: ELO-P funds are dedicated to TK through 6th grade, with emphasis on equity and ensuring all students (especially English learners, low-income youth, and foster students) have access.
• Program Implication: Materials should be developmentally appropriate, culturally responsive, and inclusive of all learners.
• The MindWorks Difference: “MindWorks K–6 curriculum supports language development, inclusive participation, and culturally responsive engagement.”

Staff Sustainability & Minimal Training

• Why it matters: Districts and partners struggle to staff ELO-P programs, especially in rural and high-need communities.
• Program Implication: Curriculum must be turnkey, work for paraprofessionals or youth workers, and require little to no professional development.
• The MindWorks Difference: “Built for real-world staffing: our enrichment kits are plug-and-play for paraeducators and expanded learning staff.”

Alignment with School-Day Goals (Without Duplicating Instruction)

• Why it matters: ELO-P must complement, not replicate, the school day. Programs should reinforce core goals like literacy or math, but through enrichment approaches.
• Program Implication: Activities should indirectly support standards while staying fun, creative, and different from the classroom.
• The MindWorks Difference: “Our materials reinforce key skills through creativity, not repetition — our kits support learning through play, projects, and collaboration.”