Out of School Time/Expanded Learning

High-quality Out of School Time/Expanded Learning programs, operated with help from community organizations, give students a chance to thrive in their chosen interests.

CMSD offers programs after school, at every school, during the school year and at select schools during the Summer Learning Experience.

 Expanded learning offers young people and their families:

• Academic support
• Enrichment
• Recreation

The after-school programming helps CMSD scholars:

• Achieve in the classroom
• Connect with caring adult mentors and friends
• Get help with homework
• Feel well physically and mentally

The evidence is clear that attending a high-quality OST/Expanded Learning program is beneficial to students’ success.   

Highlights from the Afterschool Alliance’s study "America After 3pm"

Surveys suggest high connection with important benefits, when self-reported.

Kids in afterschool enjoy a wide range of benefits
	Interacting with peers and building social skills	90%
	Taking part in physical activity	85%
	Engaging in STEM learning	73%

Parents also cite positive outcomes for them when their child is enrolled in a high-quality OST/Expanded Learning program.

Parents with kids in afterschool benefit too
	Gives working parents peace of mind	92%
	Keeps their kids safe	92%
	Helps working parents keep their jobs	89%

Why now?

The Covid-19 pandemic impacted scholars’ ability to connect, with their teachers, their school services, and each-other.  It also led to a dramatic drop in participation in any afterschool activities.

The effects were deeply felt by lower income communities:

This means that there is no better time to enroll your student in an OST program—discuss with your Family Support Specialist now.

See the full report from the Afterschool Alliance here.