School-age children and youth spend 80% of their time outside of the classroom – leaving significant time for new experiences. Expanded learning and out-of-school time (OST) programs “provide transformative learning experiences in unique settings that help young people discover what they love to do and reach their full potential” (This is Afterschool, Afterschool Alliance). Due to social inequities and systemic barriers, marginalized young people are the least likely to have these transformative experiences. Alexandria Beyond the Classroom (ALX Beyond) is creating a system that centers the aspirations and needs of our vulnerable children and youth, ensuring that every young person benefits from expanded learning opportunities.

Children and youth who regularly participate in expanded learning/OST programs try new things, explore diverse interests, discover talents, and develop a positive identity. By establishing a positive identity, they develop a sense of personal well-being and a sense of connection and commitment. They gain knowledge, skills, and attitudes that prepare them for adulthood. They also:

• Build critical developmental assets and leadership skills;
• Strengthen their social-emotional competencies through developmental relationships with peers and trusted adults;
• Are more engaged in school;
• Maintain or improve their school attendance;
• Are more likely to graduate on time;
• Maintain or improve their academic performance;
• Explore life and career pathways;
• Discover who they are - and who they want to be.

Research also shows that expanded learning programs serve as an effective front line for prevention. Programs provide youth with safe alternatives from engaging in risk-taking behaviors. These programs also support the workforce by allowing parents, guardians, and family members to work during afterschool hours. Families have peace of mind knowing that their children are safe and engaged.

The City of Alexandria’s youth want to participate in programs to have fun, grow, practice new skills, and pursue their interests and passions. However, only about 1/3 of children and youth participate in OST activities due to the lack of a coordinated system, which has created barriers to program access and engagement. Providers also need critical supports to deliver programming to young people (Increasing Opportunities for Alexandria City Youth: A Community Report). There is tremendous opportunity to engage our young people in a diverse array of programming by taking a youth-centered, systems-level approach. We are creating a strong expanded learning system by focusing on 4 key outcomes:

1. Information & Access: Youth, families, and providers will be informed about expanded learning and out-of-school time programming in the City of Alexandria. All young people will have equitable access to programming - increasing program enrollment and engagement.
2. Experiences: Youth will have a diverse array of expanded learning experiences that are meaningful and fulfilling to them.
3. Quality Programming: Expanded learning providers offer high-quality programming that centers the social-emotional development of the youth they serve.
4. Data: Stakeholders provide and have access to reliable data to inform decision-making and program design, improve quality, and evaluate impact and service delivery for youth.