The Power of Data in Expanded Learning Schools across the country are grappling with the challenge of providing quality learning opportunities in out-of-school time. The demand for after-school programs has grown significantly, yet districts face numerous obstacles in meeting this need.
Many districts find themselves struggling to secure the necessary resources and partnerships to create enriching programs that keep students engaged beyond the school day. At the 2025 ACSA Superintendents’ Symposium in Monterey, CA, Dr. Michele Bowers (retired Lancaster USD superintendent) and Dr. Helen Wang (CEO & co-founder of 6crickets) led an all-star panel of expanded learning champions from three districts.
Superintendent Darren Knowles and Expanded Learning Director Alan Pantanini of Pomona USD, Superintendent Kirk Shrum and Expanded Learning Director Michele Reid of Visalia USD, and Superintendent Dr. Heather Golly of Bonsall USD all shared their ELO-P successes and learnings with the room.
Missed it? No worries! Here are some key takeaways from our time in Monterey.
Chronic Absenteeism:
Post-pandemic, chronic absenteeism is rising, leaving schools struggling to re-engage students. Expanded learning programs and community partnerships are key to bringing them back.
Michele Reid, ELO-P Director for Visalia USD, highlights the pivotal role expanded learning plays in combating this issue: “Chronic absenteeism is plaguing districts across California and the country. At Visalia Unified School District, we are using ELOP funds to re-engage students in school as intended. Our first full ELOP club implementation in 2023 led to significant increases in attendance at elementary after-school programs compared to previous years, and this year, those numbers have grown even more.”
How do we know these programs are positively affecting student attendance? Through continuous measurement and evaluation. Michele shares VUSD’s methods: “Our partnership with 6crickets has been instrumental in tracking the impact of these programs. Initially, we adopted 6crickets without fully understanding our needs…6crickets has expanded to provide attendance tracking and reporting, making it a comprehensive solution for both ELOP and ASES needs. Their responsiveness and collaboration have been key in advancing our work in ELOP.”
Budget Challenges:
Budgets can be the biggest hurdles when designing expanded learning programs. For our outside of California friends who may be unfamiliar with nuances of the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P): ELO-P funding has two tiers. Rate 1 supports TK-6 expanded learning based on a district’s unduplicated pupils (low-income, foster youth, and English learners) and requires a 75% UPP to qualify. Rate 2 provides extra funding for secondary programs once TK-6 needs are met. Districts below 75% UPP receive lower per-pupil funding but must still offer expanded learning to all eligible TK-6 students upon request.
Whether a Rate 1 or Rate 2 district, budgets always manage to create an issue. The good news? Rate 1 qualification is being lowered from 75% to 55%! The not so good news? It never seems to be enough. The solution? Get creative!
Michele Reid shares the struggles of stretching Visalia’s budget: “Managing an ELOP program at 32 sites with a small administrative team is challenging, but by allocating a portion of elementary assistant principals’ salaries to ELOP oversight, we provide essential support. Districts using cost-sharing must ensure proportional funding based on student access.”
Visalia USD has developed a Unified Program Model that integrates all after-school programs, eliminating visible funding distinctions for families. This model adheres to ASES’s strictest requirements while leveraging ELOP flexibility to better serve students. Although ASES mandates students stay until 6 PM, VUSD utilizes state-provided early release codes, allowing pick-up as early as 4:15 PM without compromising funding compliance.
This holistic and unified approach not only ensures compliance with funding requirements but also enhances flexibility and accessibility for Visalia USD families, reinforcing our commitment to equity and student success.
Use it Before we Lose it!
Expanded Learning Programs not only get students in seats but also foster creativity, teamwork, and leadership skills that prepare them for future success.
Dr. Michele Bowers, underscores the importance of accountability and data-driven success: “Make the funding count. Keep track of your results, because we don’t want the funding to go away. Celebrate the success and lift the voices of your students, families, staff, and partners.” Effective tracking and storytelling of program success are essential to securing and maintaining these vital resources.
A sentiment that was further emphasized by Darren Knowles: “When you’re in a leadership role, listening and learning are a big part of your job… I would encourage you to learn from everybody in the room…”. By exchanging insights and best practices, districts can better navigate these challenges and implement effective after-school programs.
Superintendent Dr. Heather Golly reiterated the importance of working as a team to support students: “The flexibility that districts have with 6Crickets allows you to develop an ELOP plan that meets the needs of your students and supports your staff. We want to develop our program with intention, to represent our community’s wants and needs…6Crickets takes our vision and helps us to implement it. Our business services department has been thrilled with the customized invoices and reports.”
Join the Movement As schools continue to navigate the evolving landscape of after-school programming, it is essential to adopt best practices that make expanded learning opportunities more accessible and effective. If your district is looking for proven strategies to enhance after-school programs, reduce administrative stress, and maximize funding, now is the time to explore innovative solutions and partnerships. We want to hear about your expanded learning journey! Share what you’re doing and let’s explore how we can support you. Drop us a line at info@6crickets.com!
Yours in Education,
6crickets Team
